Vacant job

Department of Aquatic Resources

Climate change is affecting aquatic ecosystems worldwide, creating an urgent need for management strategies that strengthen ecological resilience and promote the sustainable use of aquatic resources. In this two-year postdoctoral project, you will use quantitative knowledge syntheses to identify how aquatic management can enhance ecosystem resilience to climate change. The position offers excellent opportunities for career development through scientific publication, conference participation, and collaboration with stakeholders.

About the Job

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in evidence-based conservation and restoration ecology. The project combines fundamental ecological and evolutionary research with applied management to answer:

• Which management interventions are most effective in increasing the resilience of aquatic ecosystems to climate change?
• How is the effect of climate adaptation measures influenced by dispersal, ecological interactions, and evolutionary adaptation?
• How can evidence synthesis of climate measures be translated into practical decision support for water management?

You will apply systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and other evidence-based synthesis methods to answer these questions. The work includes close collaboration with end-users to ensure scientifically robust and practically relevant guidance for the climate adaptation of aquatic ecosystems. The project is expected to result in scientific publications as well as practical knowledge for evidence-based management.

We offer a collaborative research environment with strong links between basic research and management. The successful candidate will have opportunities to publish in leading international journals, present their work at international conferences, and collaborate with end-users and decision-makers to develop their independent research profile.

Your Background

You must have a PhD in biology (ecology/evolution), environmental science, or a related field. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or other relevant evidence-based synthesis methods should have formed a central part of your thesis or academic career. Experience in research relevant to environmental management, measures, or decision support for aquatic resources, and collaboration with end-users, particularly in coastal and marine areas, is advantageous.

Applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:

• systematic reviews/meta-analysis or other evidence synthesis
• conservation ecology/restoration ecology
• research on climate change and climate adaptation
• aquatic ecology

We are looking for a candidate with analytical and problem-solving skills, who can work both independently and collaboratively, and has a documented ability to publish scientific research. Good written and oral communication skills in English are required. We will also place great emphasis on personal qualities relevant to the position.

The position is intended for an early-career researcher. Candidates should have obtained their PhD no more than three years prior to the start date. Under certain circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier, which includes leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, trade union trust positions, military service, or other similar circumstances.

About Us

The successful candidate will work with a group of ecologists and evolutionary biologists from SLU and the Swedish Museum of Natural History. All researchers in the team work in close collaboration with authorities and managers.

The Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua), hosting the postdoc, is an inspiring environment where you will contribute to knowledge for the sustainable use of seas, lakes, and watercourses. We combine ecological, biodiversity, and fisheries research with environmental monitoring, as well as advice for national and international management. With over 200 employees, we are the largest knowledge hub for aquatic ecosystems and fisheries in Sweden, providing access to research infrastructure and research opportunities of high societal relevance. Our main office is located in Uppsala (Ultuna), and our three other main sites are Lysekil, Öregrund, and Stockholm (Drottningholm).

Read more about SLU Aqua: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/akvatiska-resurser/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/akvatiska-resurser/)

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting:

https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location: Uppsala

Employment type: Fixed-term employment for 24 months.

Scope: 100%

Start date: By agreement, but no later than January 1, 2027.

Application:

Applicants are welcome to submit their application via the button below, by August 17, 2026. The application must be written in English and include 1) a cover letter describing you, your skills, and qualifications in relation to the advertised profile, as well as contact details for two reference persons, 2) a CV documenting your academic career and education with a publication list (including submitted manuscripts), and 3) a copy of the PhD diploma and any other academic merits.

Union representatives:

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

Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable life, 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 sites are 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 an equal and inclusive working 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.