Post-doc position in poplar silviculture

Post-doc position in poplar silviculture 100% SLU develops the understanding and sustainable use of biological natural resources. This is achieved through research, teaching, environmental monitoring and assessment and information extension. SLU has 3 000 employees, 4 200 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Duties: Poplars are among the most widely distributed hardwood species of the northern boreal and temperate forest zones. Except for the native aspen, there is little experience in growing and managing poplar species for various forestry objectives in Sweden. So far, research on poplar in Sweden has focused mainly on genetics and only little on silvicultural practices. Due to an increasing national interest in wood as a renewable natural resource for various end-uses, including bioenergy, SLU is currently seeking to recruit a post-doc candidate focusing specifically on the silviculture of fast-growing poplar species (Populus sp.). The successful candidate is expected to initiate and conduct research on a range of issues relating to poplar silviculture, including site-specific choice of genetic material, stand establishment, tending and thinning practices. As part of this the candidate should establish field experiments in forest settings as well as on agricultural land to test alternative silvicultural practices for relevant poplar species, varieties, hybrids and clones. During the project period the candidate is expected to publish a comprehensive review of poplar silviculture with special emphasis on the potential large-scale implementation of such practices in Sweden. The position is based at SLU's Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre in Alnarp. The work should be carried out in close cooperation with other projects focusing on hardwood silviculture and forest production issues. Throughout, the activities should be coordinated with other stakeholders, including SweTree Technologies, Umeå Plant Science Centre, other SLU departments, Skogforsk and major forestry companies and associations. The post-doc candidate is expected to participate in teaching, information and extension activities as an integral part of the research programme. Qualifications: Applicants should hold a recent Ph.D. degree (or equivalent) in forestry or a similar subject. Advanced level knowledge of silviculture and statistics is considered an advantage. The applicant should be in good command of written and spoken English. Working knowledge of Swedish is desirable. Due to extensive field work a driving license is desirable. The applicant should be prepared to work both independently and in a team. Applications should include a personal motivation, curriculum vitae, copies of degrees and transcripts of academic records, a list of all publications, a copy of the Ph.D. thesis and other relevant publications submitted in support of the application, a copy of the applicant's passport (page with photo), and a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications. The application should be written in English and any hard-copy submissions should include three copies of each document. The selection among applicants will be based on their written application and an interview. Form of employment: Temporary employment, for a period of two years. Starting date The project is expected to begin at 1 January 2011. Depending on project funding and research progress the employment period may be extended.