PhD in Plant Breeding Against Insect Pests — Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Original title: Doktorand

About the role

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Crop Production Ecology, invites applications for a PhD student position (doktorand) in plant breeding and insect pest protection. The position is part of the new project “Node for plant breeding against insect pests and viruses” within the SLU Grogrund centre. The project aims to drastically reduce yield losses caused by insect pests and insect-borne viruses through plant breeding, focusing on wheat, faba bean, pea, and sugar beet. This is a collaboration between five SLU departments and three plant breeding companies.

The successful candidate will work specifically on the bean weevil (Bruchus rufimanus) in faba bean, a pest currently hindering the development of the crop for human consumption. The PhD will include both research studies and coursework.

Responsibilities

• Map the insect’s life cycle in the field and in storage
• Develop screening methodology for bean weevil infestation in a large panel of breeding material
• Contribute to developing DNA markers for tolerance and resistance to bean weevil for future application in plant breeding
• Collaborate with other PhD students and senior researchers in plant breeding, crop production, entomology, virology, and genetics, as well as with industry partners (primarily Lantmännen and NordGen)
• Conduct laboratory and field work at SLU campuses in Uppsala and Alnarp, at NordGen in Alnarp, and potentially at other locations in Sweden

Qualifications

Required

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in agronomy, horticulture, plant biology, plant protection, or a closely related field
• Experience in statistical analysis of data
• Experience working with plants or insects in the field or greenhouse
• Strong interest in plant protection and plant breeding
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written

Desirable

• Experience with or knowledge of crops and agriculture
• A valid driving licence for Sweden

Personal qualities

Great emphasis is placed on the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative, handle complex tasks in a structured way, and contribute positively to a cross-disciplinary and international working environment.

Eligibility

To be eligible for PhD studies, you must hold a Master’s degree or have completed at least four years of full-time study, of which at least one year at advanced level. Applicants invited to interview must submit certified copies of degree certificates, transcripts, and, for non-Swedish citizens, a certified copy of the passport page with photo and personal details.

What we offer

• A 4-year PhD employment (full-time, 100%) with a salary following local collective agreements (fixed salary steps)
• Placement at SLU Uppsala, with field work also in Alnarp and other parts of Sweden
• Start date: 1 October 2026, or by agreement
• A dynamic and inspiring research environment at the Department of Crop Production Ecology, part of the Ecology Centre, focusing on resilient and sustainable crop production systems

How to apply

Submit your application by 16 August 2026. The application must include the documents specified on SLU’s PhD application page. Selection among eligible candidates is based on the ability to successfully complete the PhD programme within the appointed time. Reference number: SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2083.

For further information, contact Ola Lundin (University Lecturer, [email protected]) or Åsa Grimberg (Researcher, [email protected]). SLU actively promotes equal opportunities and an inclusive work environment.

Original vacancy