Postdoc

Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies We are seeking a post doc for a research project focused on understanding biodiversity in managed boreal forests. The project is part of a larger SLU research initiative (the Key Performance Indicator Project) where several researchers, postdocs and PhDs are currently involved, which opens opportunities for collaboration. This post doc will focus on issues that concern biodiversity conservation in managed forests by analysing species and structure data from a large-scale field survey conducted in both Sweden and Finland. The research will focus on lichens and polypore fungi, using HMSC modeling to learn how their biodiversity varies based on local forest management and landscape variables. The post doc will work at the Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies in Umeå and become a part of a strong research environment focusing on restoration ecology, through empirical studies and large-scale field experiments (see https://www.slu.se/en/departments/wildlife-fish-environmental-studies/research/research-areas/restoration-ecology/). The postdoc will collaborate with the Department of Ecology, the department of Forest Ecology and Management, and the Natural Resources Institute (LUKE) in Finland. About the position The post doc will analyse data from the field survey with the aim of gaining a better understanding of factors controlling species diversity in relation to forest management. They are also expected to write scientific publications together with the research group. Your profile The applicant should hold a PhD in ecology (or in a similar relevant subject). As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates obtained a doctoral degree within the last three years. Experience from relevant research questions (Bayesian modeling, Species distribution modeling, terrestrial ecology, nature conservation in forests, landscape ecology, conservation strategies) is a merit. Experience from statistical analyses of large data sets is considered a merit along with a strong publication record (in relation to the time since the doctoral degree). The applicant is expected to be able to take own initiative and work independently and in a group. Excellent skills in written and oral communication in English are required. About us At the Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies we offer a creative and stimulating environment and perform internationally recognised basic and applied research, education and environmental monitoring in the areas of biodiversity restoration and conservation, fish biology, wildlife ecology and zoonosis. The department has a large proportion of international employees and well established national and international cooperation which gives opportunities for fruitful exchange. For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/department-of-wildlife-fish-and-environmental-studies/ Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Location: Umeå Form of employment: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100% Start date: According to agreement. Application: Please submit your application before deadline December 10 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. Union representatives: https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/ The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction 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. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden. SLU has around 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.