About this role
Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology
The Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology is part of the Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC, https://www.upsc.se), which is a competence center for experimental plant research and forest biotechnology in northern Sweden. UPSC aims to conduct excellent and innovative fundamental research and create knowledge beneficial for forestry, agriculture, the environment, and society. We study plants from the cellular level up to ecophysiology, as well as from basic research to industrial applications. We strive to understand plants' ability to grow, adapt, and acclimatize to a changing world, knowledge that can lead to better plant varieties, cultivation practices, or industrial processes.
About the Job
Plants expend a significant amount of energy to constantly prepare for various types of stress, such as cold, drought, and other forms of attack. We will investigate whether some of that energy could be redirected to produce more biomass. We have identified a gene regulatory circuit in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana that acts as a switch between stress response and biomass production. We aim to optimize this circuit to create plants that grow faster when not under stress and are more resilient to stress when it occurs. The project includes studies in Arabidopsis, barley, and wheat. The candidate will employ molecular biology methods (transformation, cloning, RT-qPCR, phenotyping, CRISPR-Cas9) to create superior plant lines. The project also involves obtaining a mechanistic understanding of how the gene regulatory circuit functions. The project is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
Your Background
The candidate should hold a PhD in molecular biology or a related field. Previous experience in plant molecular biology, particularly studies involving Arabidopsis, barley, or wheat, will be considered an asset. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is required. The candidate should also be able to initiate, plan, and work independently as well as in a team. The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we are primarily seeking individuals who have completed their PhD within the last three years.
About Us
UPSC consists of two departments belonging to two universities, Umeå University (https://www.umu.se/) and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU; https://www.slu.se/). Approximately 200 people from over 40 different nationalities work here. We have around 30 group leaders, and our researchers have access to state-of-the-art analytical platforms, unique resources for tree genomics, and plant cultivation facilities. We strive to create a work environment that promotes collaboration and supports our researchers throughout their careers, including through training and individual career guidance.
Learn more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/
Location:
Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, SLU, Umeå.
Employment Type:
Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with the possibility of extension.
Scope:
100%
Start Date:
By agreement.
Application:
We welcome your application via the application button below by December 10, 2025.
Union Contacts:
https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/
The 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 a 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 researchers, with 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 among people with diverse experiences lay the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with various backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.