Industry-/collaboration PhD student in biology

WIFORCE Research School

Do you want to contribute to the future sustainable use of forests? Apply to join WIFORCE Research School! Biodiversity and the role of forests in climate change are now key social issues that require more knowledge. In order to both sustainably use and safeguard forest biodiversity, a coherent basic science research program is needed that addresses large and complex issues and develops new analytical tools. That’s why the WIFORCE Research School, part of the Wallenberg Initiatives in Forest Research (), was created.

Department of Ecology

At the Department of Ecology, we conduct internationally recognized research and education for sustainable forest and agricultural production and efficient biodiversity conservation. Our research is the basis for studying the effects of climate and land use change on animals, plants and soils. We seek solutions that contribute to a sustainable society through research on greenhouse gas balance, biodiversity conservation and wildlife management in forest, agricultural and urban landscapes. Read more about the Department of Ecology here:

What it’s like to work at Södra

Södra is one of the largest forest industry companies in Sweden and is jointly owned by more than 50,000 family forest farmers. By working together, we have the strength, commitment, and courage needed to build a sustainable society. We do this with our feet on the ground, an ear to the world around us, and our eyes on the future. At Södra, you will have the opportunity to grow in your role while also contributing to sustainable forestry that creates value for both people and the environment. Read more about Södra here:

Species' Responses to Clearcutting and Continuous Cover Forestry

Description:

We are seeking an industry/collaborative PhD student in ecology who will be admitted to a doctoral program at SLU in Uppsala and simultaneously hold a permanent position at Södra in Växjö. The student will be supervised by a team led by Joachim Strengbom (SLU) and Klara Joelsson (Södra).

The aim of the project is to clarify why some species are sensitive to clearcutting forestry while others are not, and to assess the extent to which critical environmental conditions can be maintained through continuous cover forestry. The student will work experimentally with the translocation of vascular plants, lichens, and mosses to study their survival and growth in different environments.

Qualifications:

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate who is eager to generate the knowledge needed to develop future nature conservation and forest management. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, ecology, environmental science, forest science, or a related field, and have a strong interest in ecology, biodiversity, and forestry. Advanced knowledge in ecology and conservation biology, as well as species identification skills, are considered merits. Skills in planning, conducting, and reporting scientific studies, along with experience in statistical analysis are also advantageous. The applicant should be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in both spoken and written English is required. The ability to communicate in Swedish is considered an asset, but is not a requirement. If the candidate does not have proficiency in Swedish at the time of appointment, he/she is expected to acquire the language during the doctoral period to be able to communicate fluently in both spoken and written Swedish. The candidate must be prepared to spend periods away from home during fieldwork. A valid driver’s license is required

Place of work:

Uppsala (80%) and Växjö (20%).

Forms for funding or employment:

- Doctoral studies at SLU with 80% study activity and 20% work at Södra under 5 years.

- Permanent position at Södra in Växjö.

Starting date:

October 1, 2025, or as agreed.

Application:

Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2025-08-12.

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:

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

Academic union representatives:

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.

Contact person

Joachim Strengbrom

Joachim.Strengbom@slu.se

For questions about Södra:

Klara Joelsson

Klara.Joelsson@sodra.com

Hos oss på Södra får du möjlighet att utvecklas på jobbet, samtidigt som du är med och bidrar till ett hållbart skogsbruk som skapar värde för människor och miljö. Vi sätter stort värde på ditt personliga engagemang och är måna om att du ska trivas och må bra.