Biologist specializing in nematology

Permanent Employment | Full-time | Collective Agreement | Occupational Pension | 28–35 Days of Vacation | Wellness Allowance | Uppsala | Flexibility | Application Deadline 2025-11-25 Apply here: https://sva.varbi.com/se/what:job/jobID:860562/ Nematologist for Sweden's National Reference Laboratory for Plant Pests Would you like to help build Sweden's National Reference Laboratory (NRL) for plant pests from the ground up? The Swedish Animal Health Authority (SVA) is currently seeking a nematologist to join a new team of experts in plant pathology. Here, you will play a key role in establishing diagnostic methods, quality assurance, and enhancing Sweden's preparedness for the diagnosis of plant pests at both national and EU levels. Responsibilities As a nematologist, you will: - Establish and implement diagnostic methods according to international standards (EPPO) - Work on the diagnostics of nematodes classified as quarantine pests and provide national expert support - Participate in method validation, accreditation, and quality assurance efforts - Collaborate with other NRLs and EURLs and contribute to international projects - Contribute to method establishment in related organism areas within the NRL for plant pests Qualifications We are looking for someone who: - Has a PhD in biology, plant pathology, or a related field - Has several years of experience and specialization in nematology - Is experienced in method development and project work - Speaks and writes fluent English Personal Attributes: We place great importance on personal attributes. As an individual, you are meticulous, collaborative, and can work independently. You thrive in a role where you contribute your specialized knowledge and collaborate with other experts in various biological fields. Desirable: Experience working with or collaborating with NRLs, EURLs, or official laboratories. Knowledge in molecular and morphological diagnostics of nematodes, laboratory setup, biosafety work, method validation, and accreditation. An established national or international network in nematology or plant pathology. Proficiency in Swedish is an advantage. Your Future with Us Once the laboratory is established, there will be opportunities to participate in research projects and method development. From the start, you will have international contacts within the EU’s plant pathology network and the chance to influence future standards for plant pest diagnostics. About the Workplace, SVA Dangerous animal diseases can have severe consequences, ranging from suffering in animals and humans to economic losses and disruptions in food supply. The Swedish Animal Health Authority (SVA) is an expert authority that strengthens Sweden's capacity to combat animal diseases that threaten critical societal functions through diagnostics, research, and advisory services. Healthy animals – secure humans. As a manager or employee at SVA, you contribute to a sustainable society and become a positive force for animal health and welfare. SVA is a preparedness authority and is part of the Swedish total defense. As part of securing sustainable plant protection in Sweden, SVA is now establishing a national reference laboratory (NRL) – an expert function responsible for method standardization and quality control in plant pest diagnostics. You will be part of an engaged team in the microbiological department, working closely with other sections within SVA. Conditions The employment starts with a six-month probationary period. Additional Information - Important to Know Through diagnostics, research, and expert knowledge, SVA contributes to good animal health and reduced transmission of diseases between animals and humans. Remembering the COVID-19 pandemic, we know that animal diseases can pose a threat to society and significantly impact Sweden's food supply, health, and economy. As a preparedness authority, SVA is part of the Food Supply and Drinking Water sector. SVA is a governmental authority, which means that all correspondence sent to us becomes public documents. If you have a protected identity, you should not apply for the job here on the web; please contact us instead. Tests and work samples may occur during the recruitment process. The authority may conduct a background check as part of the recruitment. As a Swedish citizen employed on a permanent basis at SVA, you will be assigned a wartime position within the authority. For certain positions, a security examination with a background check may be conducted following the Security Protection Act (2018:585) before a decision on employment is made. In some cases, Swedish citizenship is required. In preparation for the recruitment process, SVA has taken a conscious and active stance regarding recruitment channels and marketing. Therefore, we do not wish to be contacted by advertisement sellers or recruitment agencies. Grow and develop at SVA – we look forward to your application!