Vacant job

Department of Plant Biology

About the Position

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher to join our ongoing research project focused on identifying the role of small RNAs and epigenetics in plant reproduction. The main objective of the project is to investigate the function of epigenetics during meiosis and pollen development. The project will involve a combination of molecular biology and cell biology to examine the functional role of small RNAs during plant reproduction. The position is associated with the German Martinez research group at SLU in Uppsala (https://germanmartinezgroup.wordpress.com/ (https://germanmartinezgroup.wordpress.com/)).

Your Background

Candidates should hold a PhD in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or equivalent knowledge assessed by the employer as comparable. The applicant must have documented competence in genetics, molecular biology, and plant developmental biology. Experience with methods for studying meiosis and small RNAs, as well as microscopy skills, are advantageous. Creativity, motivation, and drive are important personal qualities that are considered meritorious. Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is a prerequisite as English is the working language of the research group. You should also have the ability to conduct independent research, take initiative, ask relevant scientific questions, and collaborate with other researchers.

About Us

Within the department, we primarily study plants, but also other organisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, insects, yeast cells, and even human cells. Our main research areas include: interactions between plants and microorganisms, and other forms of stress; biosynthesis of storage products; growth and development in plants; regulation of gene expression; population genetics, genome analysis, and development of breeding systems. Key methods include cell and tissue culture, protein and biochemistry, analyses of plant hormones, fats, and secondary substances; analysis of gene structure and regulation; and signal transduction in cells. Quantitative and population genetic methodologies are used to describe population dynamics. Plant transformation is used to analyze gene function and significance, and to increase genetic variation in various crops. The species we work with are primarily Arabidopsis, rapeseed, tobacco, willow (Salix), potato, barley, rye, cassava, yeast, and human cells.

The department is responsible for basic and advanced courses in: general and molecular genetics; genetic engineering; cell biology; plant physiology; plant breeding; gene expression; plant biochemistry and biotechnology; stress and developmental physiology; and molecular interactions between plants and plant pests. Additional courses are offered in collaboration with other departments. The courses are intended for students in the agronomy and landscape architecture programs as well as SLU's master's programs, but most are also open to other students.

More information about the department: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/vaxtbiologi-skogsgenetik/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/vaxtbiologi-skogsgenetik/)

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Uppsala

Employment Type:

Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.

Scope:

100 %

Start Date:

According to agreement.

Application:

We welcome your application via the button below by 2026-07-10.

Special documents to be attached to the application: The application must include (1) a cover letter, (2) CV, (3) degree certificate (in Swedish or English), and (4) contact details for two reference persons.

Union Representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, trial parks, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work for a gender-equal and inclusive work environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences lays the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.