Postdoctoral researcher: Modeller/optimizer of biodiversity dynamics and forest management for multiple objectives
The research has two main directions: one focused on developing models for the dynamics of understory vegetation, and the other on optimizing forest management to meet various objectives. There is flexibility to focus on either research direction.
In the first direction, the task is to develop hierarchical models of species or community dynamics of understory vegetation dynamics in relation to stand and climate conditions. The understory vegetation dataset, comprising around 150 species, has been collected through repeated surveys on permanent sample plots within the Swedish National Forest Inventory, representing approximately 25 million hectares of land.
In the second research direction, the task is to apply these models as part of the optimization of forest use to meet different objectives related to future forestry economy, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate change mitigation. Our integrated simulation/optimization system enables the identification of synergies, trade-offs, and compromises in forest use to meet various future objectives. The objectives are developed in collaboration with stakeholders and reflect global, EU, and national strategies and policies.
The position will be carried out in collaboration with colleagues within and outside Skogforsk, as well as international partners. You will work within our newly launched projects funded by Formas and the Velux Stiftung, building on existing projects such as ForestNavigator.EU and Biodiversa.EU/ForBioMon.
Qualifications
We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in ecology, forest management planning, environmental science, or a related field. Documented research experience in modelling/optimization related to biodiversity, forestry or ecosystem services is required. Additional merits include knowledge of Swedish biodiversity, nature conservation, and forestry, as well as experience in programming (R, Python) or Bayesian modelling. Priority will be given to candidates who obtained their PhD within the last three years before the application deadline, but this is not a strict requirement. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability and ability to collaborate, both within the project team and in external partnerships. We are looking for someone who is curious, driven, engaged, creative, and able to take a systems-thinking approach.
About the Position & Application
The position is a full-time, two-year fixed-term employment based in Uppsala, with a starting date to be agreed upon. We need your application by August 31. Email your application to skogforsk@skogforsk.se and write “Modeller/Optimizer” on the subject line.
Application documents to include: CV including publication list, up to five scientific papers, a description of previous research (max. two pages), a statement of current research interests and research you would like to pursue within the position (max. two pages), names and contact information for at least two referees. We may also ask you to submit your doctoral thesis at a later stage.
Questions or want to know more?
Please contact: Tord Snäll (Senior Researcher, Professor), +46 (0)76-766 26 12.
Union representative (SACO): Lars Eliasson, +46 (0)70-281 33 32
About Skogforsk
Skogforsk is the Forestry Research Institute of Sweden, financed by the forest sector, the Swedish government, and research funding bodies. We develop and communicate knowledge, services, and products that contribute to sustainable forestry benefiting forest owners and society.
Our research and expertise span the entire forest and forestry value chain – from seed to industry – and include nature and wildlife conservation, logistics, tree breeding, silviculture, and much more. Our good relationships with the forest sector and society enable rapid application of new knowledge.
We are approximately 150 employees in total. We believe that diversity is key to success and therefore welcome applications from all individuals with relevant experience and education.
Skogforsk is headquartered in Uppsala, with additional offices in Sävar (outside Umeå) and Ekebo (in northern Skåne).