About this role
Department of Plant Breeding
Seize the rare opportunity to work alongside plant breeders and pathologists, immerse yourself in the world of microbiome-assisted horticulture, and experience its benefits and challenges firsthand.
About the Job
Plants and their associated microbiomes represent a rapidly growing research area with many knowledge gaps. In your research, you will map the plant microbiome and the mechanisms of plant-microbiome and microbiome-microbiome interactions under biotic and abiotic stress. You will particularly study the host plant traits required for the establishment of a beneficial microbiome with the aim of achieving improved plant health, nutrient uptake, and yield, primarily for domesticated Malus, Solanum, and Brassica species. Through close collaboration with plant breeders and plant pathologists, you will gain direct insight into how new knowledge about the plant microbiome can be utilized in horticulture. You will also have the opportunity to develop connections with many researchers and stakeholders through seminars and events organized by SLU.
Your Background
Your research area may include microbiomes, plant-microbiome interactions, plant breeding, bioinformatics, or similar fields. You have the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. You have published your research in peer-reviewed international journals. Previous experience in bioinformatics and microbiome studies is an advantage for the position. We are looking for motivated individuals with a strong interest in microbiomes and plant breeding, and who possess excellent communication skills in English (both spoken and written).
The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we primarily seek individuals who have completed their doctoral degree no more than three years ago.
About Us
SLU's Department of Plant Breeding conducts research and education on global challenges affecting our livelihoods and environment. The Plant Breeding Division works to map diversity, genetics, and the effects of interactions between genotype and environment for various plant traits. We then use this knowledge to develop suitable varieties within economically significant plant species using both conventional and novel plant breeding methods.
For more information about the department/division: https://www.slu.se/institutioner/vaxtforadling/
Learn more about our benefits and what it’s like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/
Location:
Alnarp
Employment Type:
Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.
Scope:
50%
Start Date:
January 1, 2026, or as agreed upon.
Application:
We welcome your application via the application button below by December 2, 2025.
Union Contacts:
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 farms, and educational sites throughout the country.
SLU has over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral candidates, and an annual turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We strive for a gender-equal and inclusive work environment where open conversations between people with diverse experiences lay the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals from various backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.