Research assistant for biodiversity project

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Department of Ecology
At the Ecology Centre of the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), in Uppsala, Sweden, we conduct research on populations, communities and ecosystems. We generate knowledge on how land use and climate affects animals, plants, nutrient cycling and greenhouse gas balance, and develop sustainable solutions for the future. Active outreach and frequent dialogue with stakeholders are key activities.

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/

Duties:
We are looking for a research assistant within the LIFEPLAN project (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/projects/lifeplan), a six year initiative funded by the European Research Council (ERC). Within the project, we are developing a method for using machine learning to automatically classify insects from standardised picture of insect samples collected from all around the world. The insect samples are preserved and photographed in ethanol, and each image thus depict multiple insects in varying conditions and positions. The main task of the research assistant will be to compile, edit and prepare these images for machine learning. The work will also entail some testing of different annotation methods for different types of insect images. The tasks are repetitive and mainly consists of drawing contours around thousands of insects.

Qualifications:
The successful candidate should have studied biology, or another relevant topic, corresponding to at least 30 ECTS credits. As the tasks require efficient work in specific computer programs, the candidate should have basic computer skills. The candidate can work independently, is thorough and structured, and appreciate highly repetitive but precision-demanding tasks. Experience from similar tasks is considered a strong merit if attested by appropriate referees (see Application below). Basic knowledge of the biodiversity and morphology of insects is considered a merit, but not a requirement.

Place of work:
Uppsala, Sweden.

Form of employment:
Temporary employment, 3 months with possibility for prolongation. 

Extent:
50%, or according to agreement.

Starting date:
According to agreement. 

Application:
We welcome your application no later than February 14, 2023. To apply, use the button below. Make sure to upload your CV, contact information to two referees, and a personal letter of motivation, outlining why you are the right candidate for us.

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



The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is a world-class international university with research, education and environmental assessment within the sciences for sustainable life. Its principal sites are in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks and educational establishments throughout Sweden. We bring together people who have different perspectives, but they all have one and the same goal: to create the best conditions for a sustainable, thriving and better world.

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.

www.slu.se