Postdoc position on plant-microbe interactions

Department of Plant Biology About the position A postdoctoral position is available in the group of Professor Christina Dixelius at the Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala, Sweden. Research in the Dixelius lab has over many years had an emphasis on basic understanding of plant defense responses to filamentous pathogens. Identification of important effector/defense genes and their function. In this project we are using various omics approaches to clarify the status of the attacking soilborne fungi and how different red clover genotypes respond to different environments. The red clover project has an applied part where collaboration with breeders is ongoing. They have a deep interest in GWAS and genomic selection. We expect that the new team member joins ongoing genomic and pathogen work, but has its own research area in bacteria-fungal interactions, where Rhizobium species are of particular interest. Your profile We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a PhD degree in molecular biology, plant genetics, plant cell biology or related topics. Proven expertise in plant pathology and plant-microbe interactions is most desirable, and knowledge of bioinformatics, prior work with genomics and evolutionary analyses, reverse genetics, confocal microscopy, and gene functional techniques are further assets. The candidate is expected to be a team player and enthusiastically drive the research with strong initiative, creativity and independent thinking. Excellent communication skills in both oral and written scientific English are required. Since the project has collaborative parts with breeders, skills in Swedish is considered an advantage but not a requirement. As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, priority is given to candidates with a doctoral degree that is not older than three years. A competitive track record with previous scientific output such as a first author article is greatly valued. About us The Department of Plant Biology offers a creative and stimulating international environment and is one of several departments that make up the cluster ‘Uppsala BioCenter’. Uppsala, Sweden ́s fourth-biggest city, has two universities and with more than 50 000 students a vibrant student atmosphere. It is located in the Greater Stockholm area and has excellent connection to the Stockholm-Arlanda international airport. The department undertakes fundamental research on model organisms, agricultural crops, forest trees and bioenergy crops. Our main areas of research comprise the interaction of plants with microorganisms and other environmental stresses, plant growth and development, biotechnology and metabolic engineering, regulation of gene expression, population genetics, genome analysis and the development of breeding systems. Species in use are model organisms such as Arabidopsis, Physcomitrella, tobacco, crops such as oilseed rape, basket willow (Salix), potato and cereals, and pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi/oomycetes. The department is responsible for basic and advanced courses in general and molecular genetics, cell biology, gene technology, plant physiology, plant breeding, plant biochemistry and biotechnology, and molecular interactions between plants and pathogens. In addition, the department contributes to various courses together with other departments. For more information about the department or division visit: www.slu.se/en/vbsg 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: Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension. Scope: 100%. Start date: As agreed, the position is immediately available. Application: Please submit your application before deadline 15th December 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. Specific documents to be attached: Applications must contain (1) CV and copy of PhD degree (in swedish or english), (2) statement of scientific interests and motivation for applying to this position, (3) description of research experience and other activities of relevance for the position, as well as (4) contact information of three references. Selected candidates will be interviewed. 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 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.