Department of Forest Ecology and Management
A 2-year postdoctoral position (with the possibility of extension for a third year) is available at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Umeå. The postdoctoral researcher will work within the SMART MARK project - AI-driven soil mapping for future robust infrastructure and sustainable mobility. The project is led by Anneli Ågren, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), and is conducted in close collaboration with the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), with the Swedish Transport Administration, the Forest Agency, Sveaskog, and Komatsu Forest as strategic partners. The work is linked to the transition lab "Leverage momentum in large transformation projects" and aims to develop, test, and implement a new generation of AI-based soil maps for climate adaptation of transport infrastructure and sustainable use of land resources.
About the Job
The successful candidate will contribute to the development of advanced methods based on deep learning, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and high-resolution laser data for soil type mapping. The models will be trained using data from SLU's soil surveys.
Your Background
The qualifications required for this position are:
A doctoral degree in soil science, geoscience, or a corresponding relevant field of study.
Experience with machine learning modeling demonstrated through relevant publications.
Experience with data analysis in the field of soil science.
Experience with laser data.
Experience with programming and work on supercomputers (High Performance Computing - HPC).
Very good proficiency in English, both written and oral
The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we primarily seek individuals who completed their doctoral degree no more than three years ago. If there are special circumstances, the degree may have been completed earlier. Special circumstances include leave due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within trade union organizations, service in total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments for the field of study.
About Us
The postdoctoral researcher will be employed at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Umeå. The department consists of approximately 115 people, of which 9 are professors. Our mission is to promote increased understanding of forest ecosystems and how forest ecosystems can best be managed today and in the future.
For more information about the department, see: http://www.slu.se/institutioner/skogens-ekologi-skotsel/
Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/
Location:
Umeå
Employment Type:
Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with the possibility of extension.
Extent:
100%
Start Date:
Fall 2026, by agreement.
Application:
Welcome to submit your application via the application button below no later than September 15, 2026.
Documents to Attach:
Your application should be written in English and contain: (1) A cover letter summarizing your research results and how you can contribute to the research project, (2) Curriculum Vitae, (3) List of publications, (4) Diploma and publications, and (5) Contact information for 2-3 references.
Trade Union Representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in development for sustainable living, founded on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between people, animals, and ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Headquarters are located in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has more than 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and an annual turnover exceeding 4.5 billion kronor. The University is investing in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work for an equal and inclusive work environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences forms the basis for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.