PhD student in tree biology

Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology The Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology is part of Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC), a leading center for plant research and forest biotechnology. Our mission is to conduct innovative research that benefits forestry, agriculture, the environment, and society. We explore diverse plant science disciplines, from cell biology to ecophysiology, aiming to understand plant growth, adaptation, and breeding in a changing world. Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/ Name of research project/thesis PhD project plant metabolism Research subject: Biology Description: A PhD position is available in the Niittylä group at the Umeå Plant Science Center, Sweden to study metabolic fluxes and carbon partitioning in aspen. Trees represent the single most important carbon sink on the planet. An incomplete understanding of carbon partitioning limits our ability to predict the capacity of trees to assimilate CO2 and optimise the production of sustainable wood derived materials and fuels. This project will address this problem by investigating metabolic fluxes in source leaves using innovative isotope techniques. Qualifications: To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second-cycle level degree (Master), or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from overseas, or equivalent qualifications. The applicant should have a background in molecular plant biology, experience in carbon-13 labelling and metabolic flux analysis. The successful candidate is expected to have good social skills and the ability to do research independently, as well as in a team. Furthermore, good oral and writing skills in English are essential qualifications. Place of work:       Umeå, Sweden Forms for funding or employment: PhD studentship (4 years) Starting date: According to agreement. Application: Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2025-06-26. 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. Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/ Academic 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.