Two PhD Positions in Biogas Process Development and Microbiology

Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua) Climate change is impacting aquatic ecosystems worldwide, creating an urgent need for management strategies that strengthen ecological resilience and support sustainable use of aquatic resources. In this two-year postdoctoral project, you will use quantitative  evidence-based syntheses to identify how aquatic management can enhance ecosystem resilience to the impacts of climate change. This position offers opportunities for career development at the interface between ecological research and practical management through scientific publishing, conference participation, and stakeholder engagement.  About the position 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 science to address: Which management interventions most effectively increase resilience to climate change in aquatic ecosystems? How do dispersal, ecological interactions and evolutionary adaptation influence the success of climate adaptation measures? How can evidence synthesis be translated into practical decision support for environmental managers? You will apply systematic reviews, meta-analyses and other evidence synthesis methods to answer these questions. The work includes close collaboration with practitioners to ensure scientifically robust and practically relevant guidance for climate adaptation. The project is expected to result in scientific publications while directly informing evidence-based environmental policy and management. We offer a collaborative research environment with strong links between fundamental ecological research and environmental management. The successful candidate will have opportunities to publish in leading international journals, present their work at international conferences, collaborate with practitioners and policy makers to develop an independent research profile. Your profile You must hold a PhD in Biology (ecology/evolution), Environmental science or similar discipline. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses or other relevant evidence-synthesising methods should have formed a central part of your thesis or academic career. Experience of research relevant for environmental management, decision support or governance of aquatic resources, and collaborating with practitioners, especially in coastal and marine areas, is an advantage. Applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply: systematic reviews/meta-analysis or other evidence synthesis conservation planning/restoration ecology climate change research and climate adaptation aquatic ecology We are looking for a candidate with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, who can work both independently and collaboratively and has a demonstrated ability to publish scientific research. Good written and oral communication skills in English are a requirement. We will also place particular 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 ago from the starting date. Under some circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier, which includes leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within unions, service in the armed forces, or other similar circumstances. About us The successful candidate will work closely with a group of ecologists- and evolutionary biologists from SLU and the Swedish Natural History Museum. 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 can contribute to knowledge for the sustainable use of seas, lakes and watercourses. We combine ecological, biodiversity, and fisheries research with environmental monitoring and assessment, and advice for national and international management. With over 200 employees, we are the largest knowledge hub on aquatic ecosystems and fisheries in Sweden, providing access to associated research infrastructure and research opportunities of high societal relevance. Our head office is in Uppsala (Ultuna), and our three other main locations are Lysekil, Öregrund and Stockholm (Drottningholm)., Read more about SLU Aqua: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/aquatic-resources/ 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. Scope: 100% Start date: Upon agreement but no later than 1 January 2027. Application: Applicants are welcome to submit their application using the button below, at the latest by the 17th of August 2026. The application should be written in English and contain 1) a cover letter describing your motivation for the position, your skills and qualifications in relation to the advertised profile, and 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 PhD degree diploma and transcripts of academic records. 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 Crop Production Ecology Biology with a specialisation in ecology - The Department of Crop Production Ecology is seeking a PhD student in plant breeding and plant protection against insect pests. Description: Chemical insecticides have been an important tool for limiting crop losses caused by insect pests and insect-borne viruses, but their availability has declined sharply in recent years. Crop varieties with resistance, tolerance or other traits that enable them to avoid insect damage and viruses spread by insects will therefore be a cornerstone of future integrated pest management. The vision for the new project 'Node for Plant Breeding against Insect Pests and Viruses' within the centre SLU Grogrund is to reduce crop losses caused by pests and insect-borne viruses through crop breeding. The project focuses on insect pests and viruses in wheat, field beans, peas and sugar beet and is a collaboration between five departments at SLU and three plant breeding companies. We are seeking a highly motivated individual for a PhD position within the Node, focusing on the broad bean beetle (Bruchus rufimanus), a key pest of field bean. Infestations by the broad bean beetle pose an obstacle to developing field bean cultivation and a market for field beans for human consumption. The PhD programme comprises both research and coursework. The main tasks within the research component will be: Examine the insect's life cycle in the field and in storage Develop methods for screening of broad bean beetle infestations in a large panel of plant breeding material Contributing to the development of DNA markers for resistance or tolerance to broan bean beetle, for future application in plant breeding You will collaborate on the project with other PhD students and senior researchers in plant breeding, crop production, entomology, virology and genetics, as well as with the industry and other stakeholders, primarily Lantmännen and NordGen. Laboratory and field work is planned to be carried out at both SLU's campuses in Uppsala and Alnarp, as well as at NordGen in Alnarp. Field work at other locations in Sweden may also be included. Qualifications: Necessary qualifications: A second-cycle (MSc) degree in agronomy, horticulture, plant breeding, plant biology or a related field. Experience of statistical analysis of data. Experience of work with plants or insects in the field or green house. Strong interest in crop protection and crop breeding. Good command of written and spoken English. Meriting qualifications: Knowledge or experience in crops and agriculture A driving licence valid for use in Sweden We place particular emphasis on personal qualities, including ability to work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative, manage complex tasks in a structured way, and contribute positively to a team environment across disciplines and countries. To be qualified to apply: To qualify for third-cycle (Doctoral) courses and study programmes, you must have a second-cycle (Master's) qualification. Alternatively, you must have conducted a minimum of four years of full-time study, of which a minimum of one year at second-cycle level. Applicants will be selected based on their written application and CV, degree project, copies of their degree certificate and transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution, two personal references, and knowledge of English. More information about the English language requirements can be found here: https://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/application-admission-doctoral-studies/ Please note that applicants invited to interview must submit attested copies of their degree certificate, or equivalent, a transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution. Applicants who are not Swedish citizens need to submit an attested copy of their passport's information page containing their photograph and personal details. Read about the PhD education at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/study/programmes-courses/doctoral-education/ About us: The Department of Crop Production Ecology is part of the Ecology Centre and, together with the Department of Ecology, offers a dynamic and inspiring research environment. We develop knowledge about resilient and sustainable crop production systems to meet the demands for quantity and quality in terms of food, animal feed and bio-based raw materials in a changing world. The research focuses on the challenges arising from increased demand, climate change, environmental impact and loss of biodiversity linked to agricultural and food systems. Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Read more about the department of Crop Production Ecology at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/crop-production-ecology/ Forms for funding or employment Employment PhD (4 years). The salary follows a local collective agreement with fixed salary steps Scope 100% Place of work: Uppsala Starting date 1 October 2026 or as agreed Application Click the "Apply" button to submit your application. The deadline is 2026-08-16. Read about the PhD education at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/study/programmes-courses/doctoral-education/