Researcher in Perennialization of Cropping Systems

Om jobbet

Department of Crop Production Ecology

About the position

The Department of Crop Production Ecology is seeking a researcher specializing in the perennialization of cropping systems. Perennialization of crops offers great opportunities for farmers and sustainable agriculture. Many current annual cropping systems contribute to soil erosion, nutrient runoff into waterways, greenhouse gas emissions, and decreased biodiversity, while also being sensitive to climate variability such as drought. Perennial crops can reduce the need for inputs, lessen environmental impact, and increase system resilience to climate change.

There are already successful examples internationally, such as perennial rice in China and Kernza in the USA. In Europe, however, the cultivation of perennial cereals is still limited, partly due to knowledge gaps regarding their physiology, productivity, and adaptability. To develop robust and sustainable perennial cropping systems, research is needed to explain the agroecological mechanisms that govern yield, resilience, and competitiveness. As a researcher with us, you will conduct your own research that contributes to this knowledge building and to integrating perennial crops into the cropping systems of the future.

Your profile

Requirements

• A doctoral degree in agroecology, ecology, crop production science, or a related field.

• At least five years of postdoctoral experience in research on the perennialization of cropping systems.

• Experience in planning and conducting field experiments, as well as good knowledge of experimental design and statistical analysis of experimental data.

• Solid experience in managing and analyzing large datasets.

• A proven ability to publish in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.

• Very good written and oral skills in English

• Good collaboration skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both independently and in a team, preferably in multicultural research environments.

• Experience in collaboration with stakeholders outside of academia.

Meritorious

• Experience in research on perennial cereal crops, perennial cropping systems, and ecological intensification.

• Experience in interdisciplinary research environments.

• Active engagement in international research collaborations.

• Experience in project planning, project management, and fieldwork.

About us

The Department of Crop Production Ecology is part of the Ecology Centre and together with the Department of Ecology, it offers a stimulating research environment. We develop knowledge about resilient and sustainable crop production systems to meet the demands for quantity and quality in terms of food, animal feed and bio-based raw materials in a changing world. The research focuses on the challenges arising from increased demand, climate change, environmental impact and loss of biodiversity linked to agricultural and food systems. Teaching takes place at undergraduate and advanced levels, mainly in programmes leading to degrees in agronomy and biology.

For more information about the department or division visit: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/organisation/departments/crop-production-ecology/

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:

Indefinite-term employment. SLU may use probationary employment.

Scope:

100%.

Start date:

2026-03-01 or as agreed.

Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 12 January 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.