项目介绍

2024年12月23日

We seek a student to participate in a research project in which we investigate the impact of hydropower-induced water level fluctuations on shallow habitats, and whether new measures can restore some of the functions and biodiversity of these habitats in regulated lakes.

This position is hosted at the department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies at SLU in Umeå and is part of a larger research effort to study the impact of hydropower on northern lakes. The project provides a unique opportunity to engage in innovative ecological research and contribute to developing measures that alleviate the impact of hydropower.

At the Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies we offer a creative and stimulating environment and perform internationally recognized basic and applied research, education and environmental monitoring in the areas of biodiversity restoration and conservation, fish biology and wildlife ecology. The Department has a large number of international employees and well-established national and international cooperation, which gives opportunities for fruitful exchange. https://www.slu.se/en/departments/wildlife-fish-environmental-studies/

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Hydropower impacts on lake function and biodiversity

Research subject Biology

Description:

The overall study will include a range of topics; (i) fish resource and habitat use, (ii) biodiversity responses in benthic algae, invertebrates and riparian vegetation, (iii) productivity responses in bottom living algae, (iv) bird nesting and resource use.

In the project we will create three kinds of structures: (I) floating-bottom habitats, (II) impoundments which prevent bottoms from drying out and (III) small breeding islands for birds. The student will take part in studying the ecological effects of these measures on biodiversity and function of lake ecosystems. Additionally, existing gradients in hydropower impacts will be examined.

In this position, the student will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, and receive support from experienced researchers in each subject area. The content of the thesis can be adjusted based on the candidate’s background and interests. Additionally, there will be opportunities to engage in mathematical modeling

The work will be carried out in collaboration with Karin Nilsson (Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, SLU Umeå), Gunnar Öhlund, (SLU), Åsa Widén (SLU) and Jenny Ask (Umeå University). Collaboration with representatives of the hydropower company Vattenfall will also be an important part of the position. The research project is funded by the Swedish Energy Agency. 

Qualifications:

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate who is able to take initiatives and work both independently and in a group.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or the equivalent.

Knowledge of fish ecology and food web ecology is highly desirable.

Experience of fieldwork in aquatic environments, especially fishing and/or sampling of invertebrates, algae and plants in northern lakes is highly valued. Experience of lab work with fish and invertebrates is also an advantage.

Previous experience working with hydropower-related question is a merit, as is technical skills. Knowledge in experimental design, statistics, mathematical modelling and experience in working with eDNA are additional relevant merits.

Excellent skills in written and oral communication in English are required. Skills in oral communication in Swedish are a merit.

A CV (max 3 pages, font type Arial or Times New Roman, min size 11) should include the following headings: education, work experience, research interests, awards, publications, presentations at conferences, teaching experience, field work experience, laboratory experience, software and computing skills, languages and contact details for two reference persons.

A motivation letter (max 2 pages, font type Arial or Times New Roman, min size 11) should motivate the candidate’s qualifications and interest in conducting this PhD project.

Place of work:

Umeå

Forms for funding or employment:

Employment 4 years

Starting date:

According to agreement, but before summer 2025.

Application:

Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2025-01-30.

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: https://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/application-admission-doctoral-studies/

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 www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/

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

Karin Nilsson

Researcher

firstname.a.surname@slu.se

Gunnar Öhlund

Researcher

firstname.surname@slu.se

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=11909&rmlang=UK