Research assistant

Department of Forest Ecology and Management

We are seeking a research assistant to help us with field and lab work during the summer of 2025 (June – September). The job will include a combination of field work in Lapland, and lab work in Umeå.

About the position
We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate for summer field and lab work to help with project related to forests biodiversity and carbon cycling. The working period will be between June 2 until September 30. Fieldwork will consist of 1 to 2 intense two-week periods in June and July and 1 month September. We are looking for someone who can work the entire period, or who is available for shorter, periodic work, such as one or two of the fieldwork periods. Depending on this we might also neeed to hire more than one person.

Your profile
The applicant should have a strong work ethic, take initiative, and thrive in a team environment while being mindful of both group and individual goals. Fieldwork will involve remote locations and challenging weather conditions. The job will require physical endurance, including carrying heavy loads up to 24 kg for distances of up to 1 km in forested environments. Communication in English (both spoken and written) is required.

Key Requirements:

• Strong work ethic with the ability to take initiative.

• Team-oriented with an understanding of both individual and group goals.

• Willingness to work in remote locations and under challenging weather conditions.

• Comfortable carrying loads of up to 24 kg for up to 1 km in the forest.

• Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).

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/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Location:
Umeå

Form of employment:
Temporary employment from 2 weeks up to 4 months

Scope:
100%

Start date:
June 2 2025, or later

Application:
Please submit your application before deadline 31 March 2025. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to 1) half-page cover letter in English, describing yourself and your motivation and match to the above-mentioned position. State if you prefer to work the whole period (June 2- September 30), or shorter periodic intervals within this time period 2) a short curriculum vitae in English, including your education and relevant work experience; 3) contact details of one or two references familiar with your qualifications.

Union representatives:
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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.

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