Researcher in Plant Ecology

Department of Plant Production Ecology We are seeking an individual who wants to work on modeling the impact of future climate change on agriculture, with a particular focus on hydrometeorological variables during winter in Sweden and Northern Europe. About the Job According to several leading climate models, winters are expected to warm faster than other seasons in many parts of the world. This creates a chain of unpredictable effects that impact both the environment and people's living conditions. When the natural seasonal rhythm is disrupted, the risk of severe and more frequent fluctuations between drought and flooding during the remaining months of the year increases. This, in turn, has significant consequences for agriculture. While a longer growing season may open opportunities to cultivate crops that were previously not possible, the warmer temperatures can simultaneously create new challenges. Extremely dry or wet periods risk damaging crops and negatively affecting food production. We are looking for a motivated and independent researcher with several years of postdoctoral experience and ambitions for a continued academic career. You have a strong interest in developing knowledge about hydrometeorological variables and their significance for agriculture in a future climate. In this project, you will investigate how hydroclimatic processes during winter change and vary in Sweden and Northern Europe, how these changes are related to extreme climate conditions, and how they are expected to affect future yields. The work includes utilizing and further developing advanced process-based models, based on an in-depth understanding of key biophysical processes during winter. An important part of the role is also to analyze how climate change during winter affects crop ecophysiology and development. Your Background We are looking for someone who has: • A PhD in environmental science with a focus on the environmental impact of climate change or a related field. • Documented research experience in modeling the effects of climate change on agriculture in Sweden and Northern Europe. • Strong skills in statistical analysis and handling large datasets. • Proven ability to publish research results in international, peer-reviewed journals. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. • Strong collaborative skills, good communication abilities, and a high work ethic. It is advantageous if you also have: • Experience and active engagement in international research collaborations. • Experience in project planning and project management. • Previous grants awarded from national or international research councils. About Us The Department of Plant Production Ecology contributes to solutions through research, collaboration, and education on sustainable plant production. We educate and conduct research on plants for food, feed, and energy. The research and teaching have a production-oriented character with a focus on the plant community of agricultural land and its interaction with the surrounding environment and systems. Our research examines how different production methods, cultivation environments, and systems affect yield and other ecosystem services, as well as product quality and the surrounding environment. We teach about plant production, plant ecology, weed biology, and cropping systems from an ecological sustainability perspective. Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ Location: Uppsala Employment Type: Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period. Extent: 100% Start Date: By agreement. Application: The application must be written in English and include i) a statement of scientific interests and justification for why this position is being applied for (max one page); ii) a brief project plan (max two pages); iii) Curriculum Vitae including a complete publication list, distinguishing peer-reviewed articles from other publications. We welcome your application via the application button below by 2025-12-04. Union Contact Persons: https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, grounded in science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental fields, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral candidates, and a turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We strive for an equal and inclusive work environment where open conversations between people with different experiences lay the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.