Postdoctoral Position: Biological Nitrogen Fixation in Boreal Forests – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
About the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Applications are open for a Postdoctoral Stipend in Biological Nitrogen Fixation in Boreal Forests at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management in Umeå, Sweden. The department includes about 115 people of which 9 are professors. The mission is to advance the understanding of forest ecosystems and how these should be managed today and in the future. The successful candidate will join the Forest Vegetation Ecology group and be supervised by Dr. Stefan Hupperts and Prof. Michael Gundale.
Scholarship Overview
Project Description
The postdoctoral fellow will investigate biological nitrogen fixation activity in ecological niches including soil, deadwood, and mosses through field and/or greenhouse experiments using techniques such as stable isotope labeling and/or DNA-based approaches. Interactions among nitrogen-fixing organisms (diazotrophs), fungi, and plants may also be explored.
Why This Postdoctoral Position Stands Out
This postdoctoral position is unique because it focuses on biological nitrogen fixation in boreal forests – a critical but understudied ecosystem process. Boreal forests are carbon sinks of global importance, but nitrogen limitation constrains productivity. Understanding how diazotrophs, fungi, and plants interact to fix nitrogen could transform our understanding of boreal forest nutrient dynamics. The stipend of 30,000 SEK per month is tax free, which is exceptional for postdoctoral positions. The flexible start date (autumn 2026 to spring 2027) allows for planning. For a PhD graduate interested in forest ecology, microbial ecology, or biogeochemistry, this is an opportunity to conduct research in one of Europe’s leading forest ecology departments.
Key Responsibilities
- Investigate biological nitrogen fixation activity in soil, deadwood, and mosses
- Conduct field and/or greenhouse experiments
- Use stable isotope labeling and/or DNA-based approaches
- Explore interactions among diazotrophs, fungi, and plants
- Develop scientific publications for international peer-reviewed journals
Candidate Profile and Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | PhD in forest ecology or related field (earned within last 3 years) |
| Expertise | Plant community ecology, microbial ecology, soil ecology, biogeochemistry, ecosystem science, community and ecosystem genetics, and/or forestry |
| Skills | Strong written and verbal communication in English |
| Experience | Field and laboratory experience and/or experience in bioinformatics are particularly valued |
| Beneficial | Experience with stable isotope techniques, soil sampling, molecular or gene-based methods, or measurements of plant community composition and functional traits |
| Personal Qualities | Ability to work both independently and collaboratively |
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend | 30,000 SEK per month (tax free) |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Start Date | Flexible (autumn 2026 to spring 2027, no later than April 15, 2027) |
| Location | Umeå, Sweden |
| Research Group | Forest Vegetation Ecology group |
| Supervision | Dr. Stefan Hupperts and Prof. Michael Gundale |
My Application Tips
- Highlight your expertise in forest ecology, microbial ecology, or biogeochemistry
- Emphasize field and laboratory experience – Particularly valued for this position
- Show experience with stable isotope techniques, DNA-based methods, or bioinformatics
- Demonstrate publication potential – Evidence through CV and cover letter
- Include three items in your application – Cover letter, CV, and list of references with contact information
Who Should Apply
This postdoctoral position is perfect for a recent PhD graduate (within 3 years) in forest ecology, microbial ecology, soil ecology, or biogeochemistry who wants to study biological nitrogen fixation in boreal forests. If you have experience with stable isotope labeling, DNA-based approaches, or bioinformatics, and want to understand interactions among diazotrophs, fungi, and plants, this position offers a tax-free stipend for two years at one of Europe’s leading forest ecology departments.
How to Apply
Submit your application by clicking the button below on the SLU website.
Required documents (in English):
- Cover letter (describing yourself, your motivation, and a short description of what you want to work on during the postdoc position, and why)
- CV (describing your education, publications, and relevant work experience)
- List of names and contact information for three references
Application Deadline: August 27, 2026
For more information, contact: Stefan Hupperts – stefan.hupperts@slu.se
