Postdoc in biogeochemistry of forest soils

We at the Department of Soil and Environment conduct state-of-the-art research on the soil system in both national and international contexts. 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 contributes to 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 environmental monitoring and 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.


Duties:
The group Biogeochemistry of Forest Soils in the Department of Soil and Environment is looking for a postdoc to explore non-symbiotic N2 fixation in temperate and boreal forest soils in Sweden. The aim of the project is to quantify non-symbiotic N2 fixation in Swedish forest soils and identify the main controls of N2 fixation in these soils. Furthermore, the postdoc will characterize spatial and temporal variation in N2 fixation. For this purpose, the postdoc will conduct isotopic labeling experiments with 15N-N2. The postdoc will sample and study long-term field experiments and will set up an addition one-year field experiment.

Qualifications:

• PhD in soil biogeochemistry or similar (ideally received within the last three years)
• Experience in conducting soil chemical and/or biological analyses
• Experience in setting up soil incubation experiments
• Experience in working with stable isotopes is desirable
• Experience in working with gases is desirable
• Proficiency in statistical analyses
• High proficiency in spoken and written English
• Very good writing skills
• Good communication skills
• High level of enthusiasm about soil research and a strong interest in forest ecosystems

Place of work:
Uppsala

Form of employment:
Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Extent:
100%

Starting date:
As soon as possible, or according to agreement.

Application:
We welcome your application no later than 31st May, 2023, use the button below.

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/

Academic 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 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 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.