Postdoc scholarship: Population and functional genomics of biocontrol fungi

Department of Plant Protection Biology

Are you curious about how natural genetic diversity in fungi can be harnessed for sustainable agriculture? This scholarship opportunity is intended for a postdoctoral researcher interested in exploring the genomic and functional mechanisms behind microbial biocontrol. By developing effective biological alternatives to chemical pesticides, your work will help advance resilient food systems and support ecologically sound approaches to crop protection.

About the position

This postdoctoral scholarship offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of microbial genomics, plant pathology, and sustainable agriculture. The project aims to identify elite strains of the yeast-like biocontrol fungus Aureobasidium pullulans for sustainable and environmentally safe control of grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) in strawberry. The position focuses on uncovering the population genomic and functional basis of strain-level variation in biocontrol efficacy.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with whole-genome sequencing data from over 200 A. pullulans strains, isolated from wild strawberries collected from diverse geographic locations across Europe. The work will include pan-genome and population structure analyses, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and the integration of transcriptomic and phenotypic data to identify candidate genes linked to biocontrol traits. Functional validation through gene expression profiling and phenotypic assays will also be part of the role.

Your profile

Candidates should have a strong interest in population genomics, microbial biology, and sustainable plant protection. A PhD in bioinformatics, genomics, microbiology, plant pathology, or a related field is required. Candidates must have demonstrated expertise in genome and/or transcriptome analysis, including approaches such as GWAS, RNA-seq, or pan-genome analysis. Experience with fungal systems or biocontrol research is an advantage, but not a requirement.

Excellent communication skills in both oral and written English are expected. The candidate must be capable of independently planning, executing, and evaluating experimental and computational work. As a person, you are enthusiastic, responsible, and possess strong collaborative skills.

Ranking of applicants will be based on the relevance and quality of their scientific publications, as well as reference assessments.

The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we are therefore only considering applicants who completed their PhD no more than three years ago. Only non-Swedish applicants who have not previously worked in Sweden will be considered.

About us

The Department of Plant Protection Biology is an interdisciplinary constellation, encompassing Integrated Plant Protection, Chemical Ecology, Resistance Biology research units, providing excellent opportunities for strong research collaboration within and outside the departmental area. Research efforts at the department are directed towards both fundamental and applied research. Applied plant protection research is carried out in collaboration with industry and focuses primarily on the development of environmentally sustainable pest and disease control strategies for agriculture and horticulture, both in Sweden and internationally. In the Integrated Plant Protection group, we aim to generate knowledge towards the development of sustainable pest and disease management solutions based on conceptual theory and empirical eco-evolutionary, molecular, and genetic data that can meet the needs of current and evolving plant production systems.

For more information about the department: Department of Plant Protection Biology

Location:

Unit of Integrated Plant Protection, Department of Plant Protection Biology, SLU Alnarp, Sweden.

Form of employment:

Scholarship for postdoctoral studies for a period of 24 months. The scholarship is intended to cover the personal living expenses of the postdoctoral researcher and does not constitute compensation for work performed. Therefore, the scholarship is not subject to taxation

Scope:

100%

Start date:

As soon as possible or as agreed.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline February 5, 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.