Website Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
Last date to apply: 10.02.2026
Number of Positions: 01
Description:
Do you want to contribute to the future sustainable use of forests? Apply to join WIFORCE Research School! Biodiversity and the role of forests in climate change are now key social issues that require more knowledge. To sustainably use and safeguard forest biodiversity, a coherent basic science research program is needed that addresses large and complex issues and develops new analytical tools. That’s why the WIFORCE Research School, part of the Wallenberg Initiatives in Forest Research (www.slu.se/en/wiforce), was created.
We are looking for a PhD student in biogeochemistry of forest soils with a focus on N2 fixation in ectomycorrhizal tubercles. The objectives of the PhD project are to quantify N2 fixation in ectomycorrhizal tubercles in relation to N2 fixation by free-living microorganisms in Swedish forest soils, to understand the factors that influence the rate of N2 fixation in tubercles, to identify the microorganisms that catalyse this process, as well as to better understand the structure of the mycorrhizal tubercles, and to upscale the N2 fixation rates to larger spatial scales.
We offer an innovative research topic about a key ecosystem process and biological interactions as well as a very attractive research environment.
Qualifications:
We are looking for a candidate who has a master’s degree in biology, soil science, forestry, or similar. Ideally, the candidate has already some experience in soil ecological research and is highly motivated to study N2 fixation in Swedish forests. You must be fluent in spoken and written English. A standard driving license (class B) is required.
Place of work:
Uppsala
Forms for funding or employment:
Employment (4 years)
Starting date:
As soon as possible, according to agreement.
Application:
Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2026-02-10.
To qualify for third-cycle (Doctoral) courses and study programmes, you must have a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification. Alternatively, you must have conducted a minimum of four years of full-time study, of which a minimum of one year at second-cycle level.
Applicants will be selected based on their written application and CV, degree project, copies of their degree certificate and transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution, two personal references, and knowledge of English. More information about the English language requirements can be found here: https://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/application-admission-doctoral-studies/
Please note that applicants invited to interview must submit attested copies of their degree certificate, or equivalent, a transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution. Applicants who are not Swedish citizens need to submit an attested copy of their passport’s information page containing their photograph and personal details.