Postdoctoral position Aquatic Ecosystem Resilience and Climate Adaptation

Department of Soil and Environment A 2-years postdoc position is available in the Soil and Environmental Physics group at the Department of Soil and Environment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), in Uppsala. We are looking for a researcher fascinated by the interactions of ecological, biogeochemical, and physical processes that shape the responses of the carbon cycle to global change and the implementation of these interactions into soil and ecosystem models. Depending on the selected candidate, the research project can focus on statistical analysis of literature data, process-based modelling, or a combination of the two. We offer a stimulating research environment with opportunities to collaborate with soil scientists and ecologists, within SLU, in Sweden and internationally.   About the position As a post-doc in the project, you will be expected to perform independent research, including data collection from literature sources and online databases, statistical data analyses, development and use of process-based mathematical models, writing scientific papers in collaboration with the project group and external collaborators, and presenting research result at seminars and conferences.   Your profile In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a doctoral degree. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with excellent skills and experience in: Formulating novel research questions and hypotheses on processes controlling carbon fluxes and storages in soils, vegetation, and ecosystems Collection, harmonization, and statistical analysis of data on soil, vegetation or ecosystem carbon fluxes and storages from literature sources and databases Development and use of process-based mathematical models of carbon cycle in soils and ecosystems We are particularly interested in candidates able to conceptualize and statistically or mathematically link processes occurring at different spatial or temporal scales, or across levels of ecological organization (e.g., upscaling of microbial processes to ecosystem level; use of plant traits to understand ecosystem carbon budgets). Given the nature of the research project, we expect the selected candidate to be able to interact with soil scientists, ecologists, and biogeochemists. Experience in publishing in highly ranked scientific journals in English is also important. The position is intended for a junior researcher and we are primarily looking for people who completed their doctoral degree no more than three years ago.   About us The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil research institution, both nationally and internationally. Our research focuses on fundamental soil properties and processes, as well as how soil functions are affected by changes in environmental conditions, including climate change. Through research, environmental analysis and education, we contribute knowledge about future sustainable land use and develop new solutions as a basis for decision-making in agriculture, forestry and the urban environment. The working environment at the department is international and we have around 100 employees. Our research is carried out in seven subject groups with a focus on Soil Biology, Soil Nutrient Cycling, Soil Chemistry, Agricultural Water Management, Soil and Environmental Physics, Soil Mechanics and Soil Management, and the Biogeochemistry of Forest Soils. We are responsible for important research infrastructure in the form of soil chemistry and soil physics laboratories, an X-ray scanner, long-term field experiments, a lysimeter facility, and the field research stations at Lanna and Lövsta. The Department participates in approximately 30 courses at undergraduate and advanced level. We are a part of the Soil, Water and Environment Center at SLU (MVM-center), which provides links to research on water systems, recycling and bioenergy. Our work is aligned to national environmental and climate goals as well as to the Sustainable Development Goals. We are situated at Campus Ultuna in Uppsala and in Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/en/departments/soil-environment/). Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Location: Uppsala Form of employment: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100% Start date: As agreed. Application: Please include the following documents: Cover letter (max 1 page) CV – degrees and other completed courses, work experience and a list of publications Contact information for 2-3 references Research proposal describing: state of the art on the project topic described in the advertisement (max half page) knowledge gaps that need to be addressed (max half page) proposed approach to fill the identified gaps and how it is related to the applicant’s knowledge/expertise and previous experiences (max one page) Please submit your application before deadline 10 September 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.

Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable materials? We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the design of next-generation bio-based adhesives that meet both sustainability targets and industrial performance requirements. In this project, you will combine cutting-edge approaches in polymer science and AI-driven modelling to develop predictive frameworks and high-performance adhesive systems for furniture, construction and packaging industries. You will work at the interface of fundamental science and real-world application, contributing to the transition toward a more sustainable materials economy. If you have a strong research background and a drive for innovation, this position offers an exciting opportunity to take the next step in your academic career! The recruitment is done within the BioGlue-Centre “Competence Centre for Bio-based Adhesives”, which is a Vinnova Competence Centre in Sustainable Industry and Digital Transformation. The vision of the Centre is to significantly reduce the dependency on fossil-based materials in the adhesive industry by developing paradigm-shifting knowledge of bio-based adhesives and becoming a world-leading research environment in Sweden. It is built around a network of top-scientists with expertise in polymer science, adhesives, technology, and sustainability located at the Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU (https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/department-of-forest-bioeconomy-and-technology/), the Department of Fibre and Polymer Technology at KTH (https://www.kth.se/fpt/fibre-and-polymer-technology-1.778696), and the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology at Linnaeus University (https://lnu.se/en/meet-linnaeus-university/Organisation/faculty-of-technology/meet-the-faculty-of-technology/forestry-and-wood/). The Centre unites 13 companies along the value chain in furniture, packaging and construction sectors that share the same research questions around adhesives and adhesive bonding. About the position The development of bio-based adhesives is currently limited by a lack of predictive understanding of how formulation chemistry translates into material performance. This project addresses this challenge by establishing a data-driven framework for the rational design of high-performance bio-adhesives. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on integrating experimental formulation, molecular-level characterization, and machine learning to develop predictive models linking chemical descriptors to adhesive properties. The work includes the development of a structured formulation library, systematic mapping of key performance indicators, and the implementation of data-driven optimization strategies to identify high-performing systems. Machine learning approaches will be used to uncover structure-property relationships and guide formulation design. The project combines experimental and computational approaches and includes validation of selected formulations on industrially relevant substrates. You will collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners and contribute to the development of a transferable predictive toolbox for next-generation sustainable adhesives. Your profile We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a doctoral degree obtained within the last three years in materials science, polymer science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has strong expertise in polymer formulation and structure-property relationships, particularly in the modification and crosslinking of bio-based or functional polymers for adhesive or related applications. Experience with advanced material characterisation techniques is expected. A strong interest in data-driven research is essential. Experience with modelling approaches, data analysis, or machine learning applied to materials or chemical systems is considered a strong merit. You are expected to have excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and a clear motivation to pursue an academic career. The ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment is essential. In the evaluation of candidates, particular emphasis will be placed on (1) scientific excellence in polymer and materials science, (2) experience or demonstrated potential in applying machine learning and data-driven approaches to materials or formulation design, and (3) the ability to contribute to and expand ongoing research activities within the group. About us The Department of Forest Bioeconomy and Technology at SLU brings together expertise in technology, natural and social sciences. The department provides world-class interdisciplinary environment for research and education in the circular bioeconomy, with activities at the campuses in Umeå and Uppsala, and nationally and internationally. Our work spans the entire value chain of the forest-based bioeconomy – from analysing how resources can be used and governed to developing technologies, materials, and industrial processes for sustainable bio-based products and systems. The Department is responsible for education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels and collaborates closely with both industry and academia nationally and internationally. With us, you can help shape a more sustainable bio-based society. For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/skoglig-bioekonomi-och-teknologi/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21086656031&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwMj3yOmalQMVdluRBR3n7yxAEAAYASAAEgKD_fD_BwE Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Location: Uppsala Form of employment: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100% Start date: The position may start as agreed between both parties but not later than January 1, 2027. Application: Please submit your application before deadline 16 August 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/