Referensnummer: SLU.seksko.2025.4.1-14
Department of Forest Ecology and Management
We are offering a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in mercury (Hg) biogeochemistry at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management.
Mercury is a globally spread pollutant having severe negative consequences on wildlife and human populations. Important biogeochemical processes are the transformation of inorganic Hg to the bio-accumulating form of methyl mercury (MeHg) and its degradation back to inorganic Hg. This is very critical, because MeHg is considered one of the most toxic compounds in our environment, having detrimental effects on the nervous system and its development in organisms, including humans.
The fellowship is funded by the research council Carl Trygger Foundation with the aim to determine rates of methyl mercury (MeHg) photodegradation in boreal lake waters. The current perception is that the light- driven degradation of MeHg is the quantitatively most important sink for MeHg in forest-wetland-lake ecosystems. The degradation process decreases the lake water concentration and thus the availability of MeHg to be taken up in aquatic food-webs. Yet, the process remains to be fully understood and quantified in different types of lakes. A critical role is played by natural organic matter (NOM), having both promoting and inhibiting effects on the MeHg degradation process. . The project is a collaboration between The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Prof. U Skyllberg), Umeå University (Prof. E Björn), and the Finnish Meteorological Institute (Prof. A Lindfors
In this project the post-doc will contribute to the development and evaluation of a model for MeHg degradation, based on data collected in field experiments of lakes. The experiments will cover boreal lakes with different character and their seasonality features. At selected sites, the incoming sunlight will be measured and modeled. The project also includes laboratory controlled experimental studies of the MeHg photodegradation process, conducted to improve models.
Your profile
Successful candidates will have a PhD in (bio)geochemistry, preferably with a focus on the environmental fate of mercury, or closely related fields. Scientific experience in the field of photochemistry is considered meritorious. The project includes both practical experiments in the field and laboratory , so experiences of field work with lakes, as well as of laboratory experiments, is considered advantageous. We demand a documented capability of autonomous scientific research work and skills in writing scientific publications and reports in English. In addition, the postdoctoral researcher is expected to participate in scientific discussions taking place during regular meetings within the collaborating research group community covering different aspects of Hg biogeochemistry in different environments such as lakes, sediments and peatland soils. Very good command of the English language, both written and spoken, is required.
The postdoctoral stipend are for a junior researcher.
About us
The department includes about 115 people of which 9 are professors. Our mission is to advance the understanding of forest ecosystems and how these should be managed today and in the future. For more information: http://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-ecology-management/
Location:
Umeå
The fellowship stipend is for full-time over two years.
Scope:
100%
Start date:
According to agreement
Application:
Please submit your application before deadline 15 April 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.
Your application should include: (1) Cover letter summarizing your research accomplishments and how your skills would be a benefit for the research project, (2) Curriculum Vitae, (3) Publication list, (4) Transcripts of relevant degree certificates and publications, and (5) Contact details of 2-3 references.
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 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 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.
Kontaktpersoner
Ulf Skyllberg
firstname.lastname@slu.se
Länk till den här sidanhttps://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/lediga-tjanster/?rmpage=job&rmjob=12552&rmlang=SE
