Department of Soil and Environment
About the position

A well-developed soil structure (i.e. the spatial arrangement of solids and pores) is critical for sustainable crop production. Soil structure is largely influenced by aggregation induced by the microbial decomposition of organic matter. In turn, soil structure affects soil organic matter turnover because pore networks determine microbial access to SOM and the oxygen supply to soil microbes. The focus of this project is on these interactions.

The researcher will conduct research in the project “The two-way interactions between soil organic carbon and soil structure” which focuses on the physical protection of soil organic matter and the process of soil aggregation. Duties include field sampling, laboratory work, processing and analysis of X-ray tomography images and writing scientific articles.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in soil science. A PhD in soil science is required for this position. The applicant should have the ability to work both independently and in a team, to take initiatives and have good communication skills. The working language is English and good skills in English (both written and oral) are required. Previous experience with X-ray tomography and image processing and previous experience with soil chemistry and soil biology laboratory work is required.

We are primarily looking for candidates who obtained a doctoral degree within the last three years.

Selection among applicants meeting the requirements will be made with reference to the written application including cover letter, curriculum vitae, references from persons familiar with the applicant's qualifications, certified knowledge of the English language and interviews.

About us

The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil research institution, both nationally and internationally. Our research focuses on fundamental soil properties and processes, as well as how soil functions are affected by changes in environmental conditions, including climate change. Through research, environmental analysis and education, we contribute knowledge about future sustainable land use and develop new solutions as a basis for decision-making in agriculture, forestry and the urban environment. The working environment at the department is international and we have around 100 employees.

Our research is carried out in seven subject groups with a focus on Soil Biology, Soil Nutrient Cycling, Soil Chemistry, Agricultural Water Management, Soil and Environmental Physics, Soil Mechanics and Soil Management, and the Biogeochemistry of Forest Soils. We are responsible for important research infrastructure in the form of soil chemistry and soil physics laboratories, an X-ray scanner, long-term field experiments, a lysimeter facility, and the field research stations at Lanna and Lövsta. The Department participates in approximately 30 courses at undergraduate and advanced level.

We are a part of the Soil, Water and Environment Center at SLU (MVM-center), which provides links to research on water systems, recycling and bioenergy. Our work is aligned to national environmental and climate goals as well as to the Sustainable Development Goals. We are situated at Campus Ultuna in Uppsala and in Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/en/departments/soil-environment/).

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Fixed-term employment 4 months

Scope:

100%

Start date:

October 2025 or as agreed.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 25 July 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Union representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.