Researcher in Microbial ecology

Subject description

We are looking for a researcher in microbial ecology to conduct research on how different types of forestry affect soil microbiology, biogeochemistry, and resilience against climate change and extreme weather. The work will be partly carried out in collaboration with Sydvatten, with field premises connected to their forest.

Work duties

Detailed description of the work duties, such as:

• Research within the subject area
• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies
• Opportunity for training in higher education teaching and learning shall be given if teaching is part of the work duties.
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Actively seeking external research funding
• Collaboration with industry and wider society
• Administration related to the work duties listed above

Qualification requirements 

Applicants must have: 

• A PhD or equivalent research qualification in Biology, with a strong focus on soil microbial ecology
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Research experience in the subject area
• Documented experience of publishing in international scientific journals
• Documented experience in applying for, obtaining and administering external grants
• Documented experience in leadership, including supervision of M.Sc. students.
• Documented experience in measuring microbial growth in soil samples using isotope tracing
• Documented experience with biogeochemical and soil chemical methods to characterize soil microbial processes, including respiration, pH, organic matter, etc., as well as DNA extractions
• Driver's license
• Personal skills (see skills library) or other specific experience or knowledge
• Documented experience in design, planning, and execution of field work in soil microbial ecology
• Ability to work both independently and in a group

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

• Documented experience in spectroscopic methods, including FTIR spectroscopy is advantageous, as well as with data interpretation.
• Documented experience in data handling and statistics
• Research experience in forest fires and their impact on soil microbiology
• Documented teaching experience within the subject of microbial ecology

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Terms of employment

80% activity fixed term position of 10 months with a preliminary starting date of 250201 or according to agreement. 

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.