Phd student in Forest Entomology

Department of Ecology
At Department of Ecology, Unit of Forest entomology, we conduct research on forest insects in the context of anthropogenic effects like climate warming, increased trade and changes in land use. Understanding how forest insects are affected by these local changes will provide us insights on how forest ecosystems could be altered by global changes. We are particularly interested in how to mitigate the effects of these local and global changes. Our work is driven by the ambition to reveal mechanisms behind variation in the distribution and abundance of forest insects to provide solid grounds for decisions in the forest sector, contributing to the goal of sustainable forestry. Another driving force is our fascination for revealing the intricate interactions involving insects and plants.

We are now looking for a candidate for the project:

Understanding the relationship between forest diversity, healthy forests and forestry
The scientific and societal discussion about forestry in the future is in full swing and dominated by carbon sequestration, biodiversity and forest health. Changes in the management of plantation forests should balance out the above demands. Understanding how these changes affect the ecological processes will aid the identification of consequences for forest health in interaction with biodiversity as an underlying condition to achieve efficient carbon sequestration. In this project, we intend to quantify how the resistance of forests against pest insects in affected by forest diversity at different spatial scales. We aspire to bring forward practical applications for forest management and explore what type of knowledge forest owners need to be able to apply our recommendations.

As PhD student you will have good opportunities to develop international scientific networks as well as contacts with national stakeholders. We offer a vibrant research environment at the Department of Ecology with a well-structured PhD education. PhD education aims to develop creative and analytical thinking, as well as strong communication skills in the context of research. 

Qualifications:
The candidate should have a degree in forest science or ecology, and an MSc in biology. Experience working in the forest sector (e.g. forestry company) is highly valued and regarded a strong asset. Experience in design, execution and analysis of field-based experiments, preferably involving ecological interactions, is desired. Knowledge of statistical methods and their application is an extra merit. Proven excellence in written and spoken English is essential (either proof from Swedish gymnasium or TOEFL, IELTS or Cambridge ESOL). The fieldwork will take place at multiple locations in Sweden; a driver’s license is therefore required. Within this project the candidate will work and participate in an active research environment, and should be capable and willing to take initiative and work independently as well as in a group.

Place:      
Uppsala

Employment:
Employment 4 years

Start date:
According to agreement.

Application:
We welcome your application no later than 2020-02-28, use the button below.

A person has basic eligibility for third cycle education if he or she has taken a second cycle qualification or has completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, including at least 60 higher education credits at second cycle education. Upper secondary school grades equivalent to English B/English 6 are a basic requirement.

Please elaborate on your motivation for applying in your application letter. Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to written application including curriculum vitae, copies of degrees and transcripts of academic records, one copy of the dissertation for masters or undergraduate degree, a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications, certified knowledge of the English language and an interview.

Please observe that applicant/s chosen to participate in an interview shall hand in certified true copies of certificates, diplomas and transcripts from previous studies at an internationally recognized higher education institution (university or university college) and transcripts in connection to the interview. If the applicant is a foreign citizen we require a certified copy of the page in your passport with your personal data and photography.

Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/en/education/postgraduate-studies/

Academic union representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/



The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) develops the understanding and sustainable use and management of biological natural resources. The university ranks well internationally within its subject areas. SLU is a research-intensive university that also offers unique degree programmes in for example rural development and natural resource management, environmental economics, animal science and landscape architecture.

SLU has just over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and a turnover of SEK 3 billion. The university has invested heavily in a modern, attractive environment on its campuses in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala.

www.slu.se

SLU is an equal opportunity employer.