Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua)

Climate change is impacting aquatic ecosystems worldwide, creating an urgent need for management strategies that strengthen ecological resilience and support sustainable use of aquatic resources. In this two-year postdoctoral project, you will use quantitative evidence-based syntheses to identify how aquatic management can enhance ecosystem resilience to the impacts of climate change. This position offers opportunities for career development at the interface between ecological research and practical management through scientific publishing, conference participation, and stakeholder engagement.

About the position

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in evidence-based conservation and restoration ecology. The project combines fundamental ecological and evolutionary research with applied management science to address:

Which management interventions most effectively increase resilience to climate change in aquatic ecosystems?

How do dispersal, ecological interactions and evolutionary adaptation influence the success of climate adaptation measures?

How can evidence synthesis be translated into practical decision support for environmental managers?

You will apply systematic reviews, meta-analyses and other evidence synthesis methods to answer these questions. The work includes close collaboration with practitioners to ensure scientifically robust and practically relevant guidance for climate adaptation. The project is expected to result in scientific publications while directly informing evidence-based environmental policy and management.

We offer a collaborative research environment with strong links between fundamental ecological research and environmental management. The successful candidate will have opportunities to publish in leading international journals, present their work at international conferences, collaborate with practitioners and policy makers to develop an independent research profile.

Your profile

You must hold a PhD in Biology (ecology/evolution), Environmental science or similar discipline. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses or other relevant evidence-synthesising methods should have formed a central part of your thesis or academic career. Experience of research relevant for environmental management, decision support or governance of aquatic resources, and collaborating with practitioners, especially in coastal and marine areas, is an advantage.

Applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:

systematic reviews/meta-analysis or other evidence synthesis

conservation planning/restoration ecology

climate change research and climate adaptation

aquatic ecology

We are looking for a candidate with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, who can work both independently and collaboratively and has a demonstrated ability to publish scientific research. Good written and oral communication skills in English are a requirement. We will also place particular emphasis on personal qualities relevant to the position.

The position is intended for an early-career researcher. Candidates should have obtained their PhD no more than three years ago from the starting date. Under some circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier, which includes leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within unions, service in the armed forces, or other similar circumstances.

About us

The successful candidate will work closely with a group of ecologists- and evolutionary biologists from SLU and the Swedish Natural History Museum. All researchers in the team work in close collaboration with authorities and managers.

The Department of Aquatic Resources (SLU Aqua), hosting the postdoc is an inspiring environment where you can contribute to knowledge for the sustainable use of seas, lakes and watercourses. We combine ecological, biodiversity, and fisheries research with environmental monitoring and assessment, and advice for national and international management. With over 200 employees, we are the largest knowledge hub on aquatic ecosystems and fisheries in Sweden, providing access to associated research infrastructure and research opportunities of high societal relevance. Our head office is in Uppsala (Ultuna), and our three other main locations are Lysekil, Öregrund and Stockholm (Drottningholm).,

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:

Uppsala

Form of employment:

Temporary employment 24 months.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

Upon agreement but no later than 1 January 2027.

Application:

Applicants are welcome to submit their application using the button below, at the latest by the 17th of August 2026. The application should be written in English and contain 1) a cover letter describing your motivation for the position, your skills and qualifications in relation to the advertised profile, and contact details for two reference persons, 2) a CV documenting your academic career and education with a publication list (including submitted manuscripts), and 3) a PhD degree diploma and transcripts of academic records.

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 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 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.

Postdoctoral position Aquatic Ecosystem Resilience and Climate Adaptation

About the job