The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is offering a Postdoctoral Position in Aquatic Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function. The focus is on understanding how hydropower management and aquaculture shape freshwater ecosystems in northern Sweden.

Eligibility for this postdoctoral scholarship requires applicants to hold a PhD in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field by the start date. Candidates should have strong research skills, proven through publications and their doctoral work, along with good communication abilities in English and a valid driver’s license.

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is a leading institution dedicated to research, education, and environmental monitoring in agriculture, forestry, and natural resource management. With campuses across Sweden, SLU is internationally recognized for its strong focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and ecosystem sciences. The university brings together experts in wildlife, fish, environmental studies, and agricultural innovation, offering a collaborative and research-driven environment.

Application Deadline: 29 January 2026

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), supported by the Kempe Foundation
• Department: Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies
• Course Level: Postdoctoral Research Position
• Award: Fully funded scholarship for 24 months
• Access Mode: Online application
• Number of Awards: NA
• Nationality: International and domestic applicants are eligible
• The award can be taken in: Sweden

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible to apply.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for a postdoctoral project within aquatic biodiversity, ecosystem function, freshwater ecology, food-web ecology, limnology, or related fields offered by SLU.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
  • Hold a PhD in biology, ecology, environmental science, or an equivalent discipline at the start of the position.
  • Demonstrate strong research experience through a high-quality PhD thesis, scientific publications, and research achievements.
  • Possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
  • Hold a valid driver’s license.
  • Preferably have expertise in invertebrate or fish ecology, food web ecology, limnology, biodiversity assessment, taxonomy, eDNA, isotopic/laboratory analyses, or statistical data analysis.
  • Experience with fieldwork in aquatic environments is considered a strong merit.
  • Must be able to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the following documents before 29 January 2026 using the online application portal:
• A personal cover letter explaining motivation, research interests, and suitability for the project (max 2 pages).
• A complete CV with a list of publications (including submitted manuscripts).
• A copy of the PhD thesis and up to five relevant publications.
• Certified copies of PhD degree certificate and any other relevant academic certificates.
• Contact details (email and phone) of two referees.

(Union representative information is available through SLU’s website.)

Benefits

• Fully funded 24-month postdoctoral scholarship provided by the Kempe Foundation.
• Opportunity to work within internationally recognized research teams at SLU Umeå.
• Access to extensive datasets, laboratory resources, field sites, and collaboration networks.
• Participation in national research programs on freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem change.
• Professional development through interdisciplinary research, fieldwork, and advanced ecological methods.
• Supportive, diverse, and creative working environment with international collaboration opportunities.

Apply Now