Job for Researchers: Postdoc in Fungal Ecology — Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

About the role

The Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala invites applications for a 2-year postdoctoral researcher position within the Soil Microbiology group. The successful candidate will join a project focusing on grassland fungi in Sweden, specifically the CHEGD fungi—a group of conspicuous fruitbody-forming fungi (waxcaps and allies) that serve as indicators of semi-natural grasslands and are of global conservation concern.

The project aims to advance knowledge of the diversity, distribution, and biology of CHEGD fungi. In collaboration with citizen scientists, the work will map fungal diversity across grasslands with different management histories using mushroom inventories and soil DNA barcoding. Field experiments employing stable isotopes, genomics, and potentially transcriptomics will help unravel the ecology of these fungi. The research addresses fundamental scientific questions while producing information directly applicable to improved management and monitoring of threatened fungal species.

Responsibilities

• Drive independent research within the project scope
• Develop and execute field experiments
• Conduct laboratory analyses (including molecular and isotopic approaches)
• Perform data analyses using multivariate statistics and modelling
• Write scientific papers in collaboration with the project group and external collaborators

Requirements

Essential qualifications

• PhD in fungal ecology, mycology, microbiology, biology, or a closely related field
• Experience with laboratory or field experiments in microbial ecology, fungal biology, or conservation
• Experience with fungal community analyses, genomic analyses, or transcriptomic analyses
• Knowledge of multivariate analyses and statistical modelling
• Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
• Strong interest in fungal ecology and motivation for research
• Ability to collaborate, work accurately, and operate independently
• Doctoral degree awarded within the past three years (as this is a career‑developing position for junior researchers)

Meritorious qualifications

• Skills in programming languages (e.g., Python, R)
• Experience with fieldwork
• Valid driving licence

What we offer

This position provides a unique opportunity to investigate fundamental questions in fungal ecology within a dynamic and international research environment. You will work at a leading university with access to modern facilities and a strong network of collaborators. The department offers a supportive atmosphere for career development, and the project directly contributes to the conservation of threatened grassland fungi.

How to apply

Applicants should submit a letter of motivation describing their research interests and relevant experience, along with a CV and contact details for at least two references. The application must be written in English. For further information, please contact Karina Clemmensen ([email protected]).

Original vacancy