项目介绍

2026年4月22日

Description of the doctoral project
As forests increasingly face challenges brought on by a rapidly changing environment, it is important to address these problems from multiple angles. There is growing awareness of the potential usefulness of genetic data in forest management, but much is unknown about the genomics of non-model plant species like many forest trees.
The McEvoy Lab draws from a variety of new approaches to develop a better understanding of how genomic diversity is distributed in forest tree species, how it has evolved, and implications for the future. Methods range from:

• studying genomic characteristics that drive genome evolution
• examining variation critical for survival and fitness, such as enhanced disease resistance
• assessing and characterizing genetic diversity and population dynamics
• demonstrating how this information can be used to help inform conservation or breeding programs

About the position
This PhD project will focus on forest tree evolution, adaptation, and genetic diversity in forests of Sweden and beyond. You will gain training in:

• genome biology and evolutionary genomics
• population genetics and conservation genomics
• computational analysis of large datasets

The work will primarily be computational in nature, requiring development of a broad technical skillset. This project is ideal for candidates interested in bioinformatics, evolution, and exploring how genomics can be applied to real-world challenges.

Requirements
To meet the general entry requirements you must have been awarded a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification, satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad (Higher Education Ordinance 1993:100, Chapter 7, Section 39).

Specific entry requirements for the third-cycle courses and study programme in Biology. To meet the specific entry requirements, you must have at least 90 HEC in biology-related subjects, at least 30 of which at second-cycle level.

You must also meet the equivalent English language requirements as those necessary for the Swedish upper-secondary qualification Engelska B/6.

Your profile
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in using computational genomics to study forests in Sweden, Europe, and beyond. A qualifying background and personal skills includes:

• A master’s degree in evolution and ecology, genomics, population genetics, plant or forest sciences or a closely related field
• Excellent written and oral English and general communication skills
• The ability to be detail-oriented and work in a structured, quality-conscious manner
• The flexibility to work independently, with self-initiative, as well as collaboratively
• Ability and eagerness to learn new methods and a strong interest in developing both computational and analytical skills

 Desirable qualifications:

• Experience with genomic or transcriptomic data analysis, especially of plant species
• Basic understanding of genomics, evolution or population genetics theory
• Evidence of technical skills and interest (e.g., writing code, using git, HPC experience)
• Understanding of basic statistical methods
• Demonstrated ability to review and synthesize literature into scientific concepts

About us
The Department of forest genetics and plant physiology is part of Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC, https://www.upsc.se) which is a centre of excellence for experimental plant research and forest biotechnology in Northern Sweden. Our mission is to perform excellent and innovative basic research and generate knowledge that benefits forestry, agriculture, environment and society. We work across a wide range of disciplines in plant science reaching from cell biology to ecophysiology and from basic research to industrial applications. Our common goal is to understand the plants’ ability to grow, adapt and acclimate to a changing world and how we can breed better plants.

Read more about staff benefits and life as an SLU employee on https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ 

Read more about third-cycle courses and study programmes on www.slu.se/utbildning/program-kurser/forskarutbildning/.

Form of employment / Funding
Employment as a doctoral student, 4-year programme

Doctoral student’s salaries are set following the local collective agreement. Salary progression is fixed.

Location:
Umeå

Scope:
100%

Start date:
Upon agreement

Application and selection:
Please submit your application using the link below. The deadline is 15 05 2026.

Read more about the attachments that your application should include at https://www.slu.se/en/study/programmes-courses/doctoral-education/how-can-i-become-a-doctoral-student/application/

Selection among eligible applicants is based on the documents attached to the application, and is carried out with regard to the applicant’s ability to complete the programme within the allotted time.

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 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.