A research assistant to study nitrogen fixation in mycorrhiza and in forest soils

Department of Soil and Environment

About the position

We are looking for a research assistant that will work with biogeochemistry of forest soils with a focus on N₂ fixation in ectomycorrhizal tubercles. The objectives of the project are to quantify N₂ fixation in ectomycorrhizal tubercles in relation to N₂ fixation by free-living microorganisms in Swedish forest soils, to understand the factors that influence the rate of N₂ fixation in tubercles, to identify the microorganisms that catalyse this process, as well as to better understand the structure of the mycorrhizal tubercles, and to upscale the N₂ fixation rates to larger spatial scales.

Your profile

We are looking for a research assistant who has a master’s degree in biology The research assistant should have experience in molecular methods and fluorescence microscopy.

Fluent in spoken and written English.

A standard driving license (class B) is required.

About us

The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil research institution, both nationally and internationally. Our research focuses on fundamental soil properties and processes, as well as how soil functions are affected by changes in environmental conditions, including climate change. Through research, environmental analysis and education, we contribute knowledge about future sustainable land use and develop new solutions as a basis for decision-making in agriculture, forestry and the urban environment. The working environment at the department is international and we have around 100 employees.

Our research is carried out in seven subject groups with a focus on Soil Biology, Soil Nutrient Cycling, Soil Chemistry, Agricultural Water Management, Soil and Environmental Physics, Soil Mechanics and Soil Management, and the Biogeochemistry of Forest Soils. We are responsible for important research infrastructure in the form of soil chemistry and soil physics laboratories, an X-ray scanner, long-term field experiments, a lysimeter facility, and the field research stations at Lanna and Lövsta. The Department participates in approximately 30 courses at undergraduate and advanced level.

We are a part of the Soil, Water and Environment Center at SLU (MVM-center), which provides links to research on water systems, recycling and bioenergy. Our work is aligned to national environmental and climate goals as well as to the Sustainable Development Goals. We are situated at Campus Ultuna in Uppsala and in Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/en/departments/soil-environment/).

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:

Fixed-term employment 2 months, with the possibility of an extension

Scope:

100%

Start date:

September 2026, or as agreed.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 21 of August 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

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.