Our mission
Here at the department, our mission is to advance the understanding of forest ecosystem processes and to progress the principles of forest ecosystem management.
Laboratory Facilities
Our state-of-the-art labs offer analysis on soils, plants, gases, and water components in SSIL, BAL and research lab facilities
Research Infrastructures
The unit for field-based forest research was established in 2004 and is part of the Faculty of Forest Sciences.
BIOGEOMON 2026
SLU host the BIOGEOMON conference on June 8-11, 2026 at the Umea Campus
WIFORCE
Wallenberg Initiatives in Forest Research explore how climate, environment, and genetics affect forest growth and health
News & Events
News
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Trees do not just count cold – they use warm spells to track winter’s progress
To survive winter, trees must time spring growth with great precision. New research from Umeå Plant Science Centre shows that trees also use warm interruptions in early winter as signals, helping buds avoid opening too early. -
Traditions determine which tree species are used in Madagascar – challenged as the rainforest shrinks
The forest is vital for the local population in Madagascar. A new study shows how culture and traditions govern which tree species are preferred in everyday life. The study provides knowledge that is needed to support the population and reduce pressure on the forest. -
Spider silk with integrated color – new method developed at SLU
Scientists have developed a new type of artificial spider silk fibers that are colored, marking an important step toward eliminating the need for conventional dyeing processes. A new study led by Professor Anna Rising has now been published. -
Digital innovation hub boosts forest sector in northern Sweden
How can SLU’s goldmine of forest data be put to the best possible use? Through Digital Impact North, a collaborative network for digital innovation, powerful tools have ended up in the right hands at more than 100 public and private actors in northern Sweden – leading to award-winning products. -
The right flower can attract more beneficial organisms – above and below ground
Not all flowers deliver the same benefits. A new study from SLU shows that choosing the right plant species for flower strips can simultaneously support pollinators, natural enemies to pests, and soil life – while poor choices may have the opposite effect.