Department of Soil and Environment Enhancing the recirculation of nutrients and organic matter from animal manures and organic side streams back to the cropping system is among the key strategies to sustain adequate food production and maintain agricultural soil functions. A variety of methods is currently employed to minimize the environmental risk of poorly treated organic nutrient sources, which greatly affect the products’ ability to act as organic fertilizers and amendments. The role of the researcher will be to assess the effect of different organic fertilizer types (e.g. pellets, biochar, hydrochar, compost) on soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling in soil. About the position We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join our research focusing on the fertilizing value of novel bio-based fertilizers, going on in different projects. The holder of the position is expected to conduct lab studies and pot experiments in order to follow carbon mineralization, nutrient release (N and P) and to determine the mineral fertilizer equivalent values of different organic fertilizers. This will be important to develop our understanding on the relationship between organic nutrient streams process parameters and potential for carbon sequestration and plant nutrition. The holder of the position is expected to publish the results of the studies in international scientific journals. Your profile The candidate should have • A PhD degree in agricultural sciences or soil science, preferably with a research focus on management and effects of organic fertilizers • Knowledge and experience within management of organic fertilizers, as technology of production and application • Experience of studies in different scales, as incubation studies, pot trials and field experiments, including skills for different analyzing methods • Capability to carry out independent research and skills in writing scientific publications • Good ability in English, both orally and written • Ability to work both in a team and independently. Organizational skills, ability to take initiatives and to interact with stakeholders are distinct advantages We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who will contribute positively to the development of the research environment, and personal fit will be an essential part of the selection process. About us The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil research institution, both nationally and internationally. Our research focuses on fundamental soil properties and processes, as well as how soil functions are affected by changes in environmental conditions, including climate change. Through research, environmental analysis and education, we contribute knowledge about future sustainable land use and develop new solutions as a basis for decision-making in agriculture, forestry and the urban environment. The working environment at the department is international and we have around 100 employees. Our research is carried out in seven subject groups with a focus on Soil Biology, Soil Nutrient Cycling, Soil Chemistry, Agricultural Water Management, Soil and Environmental Physics, Soil Mechanics and Soil Management, and the Biogeochemistry of Forest Soils. We are responsible for important research infrastructure in the form of soil chemistry and soil physics laboratories, an X-ray scanner, long-term field experiments, a lysimeter facility, and the field research stations at Lanna and Lövsta. The Department participates in approximately 30 courses at undergraduate and advanced level. We are a part of the Soil, Water and Environment Center at SLU (MVM-center), which provides links to research on water systems, recycling and bioenergy. Our work is aligned to national environmental and climate goals as well as to the Sustainable Development Goals. We are situated at Campus Ultuna in Uppsala and in Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/en/departments/soil-environment/). Location: Uppsala Form of employment: Fixed-term employment 12 months Scope: 100% Start date: 1st of September 2024 or as agreed. Application: Please submit your application before deadline 16 July2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. 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.