PhD in Soil Protein Characterization and Nitrogen Cycling – SLU

Original title: Doktorandtjänst, Karakterisering av proteiner i boreala jordar och deras roll i markens kväveomsättning

About the role

This PhD position is part of a project investigating nitrogen availability in boreal forest soils, a major constraint for plant growth and carbon sequestration. Although proteins constitute a large fraction of the soil nitrogen pool, the processes governing their breakdown into amino acids remain poorly understood. The project aims to characterize soil protein composition and properties and to examine the mechanisms regulating nitrogen cycling.

The PhD candidate will primarily work in the laboratory, analyzing natural soils from mesocosm and field experiments. Analytical work will be performed in close collaboration with the Umeå Proteomics Platform. The project is led by Sandra Jämtgård at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management, SLU, in cooperation with Maja Sundquist and Jonatan Klaminder. The candidate will join a multidisciplinary research group with expertise spanning ecophysiology, vegetation ecology, soil science, and proteomics.

Qualifications

Basic eligibility

• A degree at advanced level (Master’s) or completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits (including at least 60 credits at advanced level), or equivalent knowledge acquired in another way.

Specific eligibility for the subject Biology

• Knowledge corresponding to at least 90 credits in biological subjects, of which at least 30 credits must be at advanced level.
• English proficiency equivalent to Swedish upper secondary school English B/6.

Required background

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology with a focus on plant physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related subject.
• Fluent English (spoken and written) with good communication skills in an English-speaking environment.
• Documented experience of laboratory work.
• Documented experience of univariate and multivariate statistical analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate, solve problems, work analytically, and independently.

Meritorious qualifications

• Experience in proteomics analysis.
• Experience with LC-MS/MS.
• Experience in protein chemistry.
• Experience in bioinformatic data analysis.

About the department and institution

The PhD candidate will be employed at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), in Umeå. The department comprises approximately 115 staff members, including 9 professors. The mission is to increase understanding of forest ecosystems and how they can best be managed today and in the future. SLU has a key role in developing sustainable living based on science and education, with main campuses in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala.

Terms and conditions

• Employment as a PhD student for a four-year education period.
• Salary according to local collective agreement with fixed salary steps.
• Full-time (100%).
• Place of work: Umeå.
• Start date: Autumn 2026, by agreement.

How to apply

Submit your application no later than 20 August 2026. The application must include the documents specified on SLU’s webpage for PhD application guidelines. Selection among eligible candidates will be based on the submitted documents and the ability to complete the doctoral program within the stipulated time. Reference number: SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-1987.

Contact: Sandra Jämtgård, [email protected]

Original vacancy