Arbetsbeskrivning

Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies The Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, SLU, Umeå, is looking for a researcher in the project “Effects of pharmaceutical pollutants on wildlife”. Pharmaceutical pollution poses a growing threat to our environment, with traces of medicines detected in nearly all parts of the world. While much research has focused on the impact of pharmaceuticals on aquatic organisms, their transfer to terrestrial ecosystems and effects on riparian vertebrates remains largely unexplored. As SLU sustainable goals the project requires a One Health approach conducting an interdisciplinary study to investigate links between environmental pollution and disease dynamics in wildlife and humans. The researcher will combine field-studies with lab-experiments to bring to light the effects of human activities on wildlife and human health in our rapidly changing world. About the position The focus of the researcher will be to design and conduct a study to quantify pharmaceutical exposure in riparian organisms and select health biomarkers to study the potential impacts of these contaminants on wildlife.  We encourage interdisciplinary research that involves collaborations with researchers at the department and external (both national and international). In addition, the researcher is expected to contribute to education by teaching courses and supervising thesis workers. Finally, the researcher is also expected to apply for both national and international research grants as well as actively communicate the science to society. Your profile The applicant must have a PhD in biology, ecotoxicology, evolution or similar. Documented post-doc experience is a strong merit. The applicant should have very well developed skills in verbal and written communication in English. Prior successful collaborations with national and/or international researchers will be important for the position. We are looking for a highly motivated, independent, and team-oriented candidate with documented experience in molecular biology, animal physiology, and ecotoxicology. Strong fieldwork skills and methods for mammals live trapping, bat mist netting and other monitoring techniques. Experience working with molecular techniques (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, “omics”) and bioinformatics will count as merits. Finally, a documented history of science communication will be a merit. About us The department offers a creative, stimulating, and highly international environment and performs internationally recognised research, education and environmental monitoring in the research areas: animal ecology, aquatic ecology, molecular ecology and restoration ecology (see https://www.slu.se/en/departments/wildlife-fish-environmental-studies/research/). The department has many international employees and well-established national and international collaborations, which gives opportunities for fruitful exchange. 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: Indefinite-term employment. SLU may use probationary employment. Scope: 100% Start date: As agreed.  Application: Please submit your application before deadline 7 January 2025. 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.