Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship opportunities are highly sought after by researchers aiming to advance their expertise in environmental and biological sciences. This postdoctoral position in Aquatic Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function offers a unique chance to explore how hydropower operations and aquaculture influence freshwater ecosystems across northern Sweden. Hosted by SLU, the program provides an exceptional research environment for scholars committed to innovative ecological studies.
To be eligible for the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship, applicants must hold a PhD in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a closely related discipline at the time the fellowship begins. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong research capabilities through previous publications and doctoral work, possess solid communication skills in English, and hold a valid driver’s license. This fellowship is designed for motivated researchers eager to contribute to impactful ecological research.
Benefits of Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship
• Fully funded 24-month postdoctoral scholarship provided by the Kempe Foundation.
• Opportunity to work within internationally recognized research teams at SLU Umeå.
• Access to extensive datasets, laboratory resources, field sites, and collaboration networks.
• Participation in national research programs on freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem change.
• Professional development through interdisciplinary research, fieldwork, and advanced ecological methods.
• Supportive, diverse, and creative working environment with international collaboration opportunities.
Eligibility for the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for a postdoctoral project within aquatic biodiversity, ecosystem function, freshwater ecology, food-web ecology, limnology, or related fields offered by SLU.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
• Hold a PhD in biology, ecology, environmental science, or an equivalent discipline at the start of the position.
• Demonstrate strong research experience through a high-quality PhD thesis, scientific publications, and research achievements.
• Possess excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Hold a valid driver’s license.
• Preferably have expertise in invertebrate or fish ecology, food web ecology, limnology, biodiversity assessment, taxonomy, eDNA, isotopic/laboratory analyses, or statistical data analysis.
• Experience with fieldwork in aquatic environments is considered a strong merit.
• Must be able to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Required Documents
• A personal cover letter explaining motivation, research interests, and suitability for the project (max 2 pages).
• A complete CV with a list of publications (including submitted manuscripts).
• A copy of the PhD thesis and up to five relevant publications.
• Certified copies of PhD degree certificate and any other relevant academic certificates.
• Contact details (email and phone) of two referees.
How to Apply for Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship?
- Apply online through the official SLU application portal before 29 January 2026.
- Submit a cover letter (max 2 pages) explaining motivation, research interest, and project suitability.
- Provide a complete CV with a full list of publications (including submitted ones).
- Upload PhD thesis and up to five relevant publications.
- Attach certified copies of PhD degree and other relevant academic certificates.
- Include contact details of two referees (email and phone).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship are 2-year scholarship-based post-doctoral positions for PhD holders, offering full-time research opportunities in ecology, environment, agriculture and aquatic systems. They require English proficiency, relevant scientific background, and application materials like CV, publications list, PhD diploma and referees. Non-EU/EEA citizens can apply but must attain a research residence permit.
What is the “Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship”?
The “fellowship” refers to a post-doctoral position funded by scholarship at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). These fellowships support early-career researchers for projects like aquatic biodiversity, ecosystem studies or agricultural system research with full-time scope and fixed duration.
Who is eligible to apply for a Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship?
Candidates must hold a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in relevant fields at the time of starting. For some fellowships, a PhD awarded within the last few years is strongly preferred.
What kinds of research topics are offered under Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship?
SLU fellowships vary: one project studies how hydropower and fish farming affect aquatic food webs in northern lakes; another examines carbon and water balances in northern agricultural systems. The research spans ecology, agriculture, environmental science and ecosystem management.
Are SLU fellowship positions considered employment?
No — these are scholarship-based fellowships, not employment contracts. Recipients are not formally employed, but rather funded through external scholarships (e.g. from foundations) for the duration of the project.
What are the requirements regarding language and skills for applicants?
Applicants must have excellent written and oral English skills. For ecological projects, knowledge in relevant topics (e.g. invertebrate taxonomy, limnology, ecology) and field work or lab methods (eDNA, statistical analysis) may be required depending on project focus.
Can non-EU/EEA citizens apply for these Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Fellowship?
Yes — non-EU/EEA citizens may apply. However, they must obtain a residence permit for research before entering Sweden and beginning the work.
What application materials are typically required for a SLU fellowship?
Applicants generally need to submit a cover letter (describing interest and research plan), CV with publication list, copy of PhD thesis and degree certificates, and contact details for at least two referees.
What kind of environment does the fellowship provide at SLU?
SLU offers a rich research environment with internationally recognized basic and applied research, collaborations across disciplines, a diverse international staff, and access to large research networks — conducive to scientific exchange and development.
When is the application deadline for the current fellowship in aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem function?
For that specific fellowship, the application deadline is 29 January 2026. The position is scheduled to start Spring 2026 or by agreement.
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