Research Assistant in biology with emphasis on plant ecophysiology

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

At the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BioEnv) we have teaching and research activities that stretch from the alpine ecosystem, through forests, cultivated land and streams, all the way into the marine environment. In these environments we study different levels of biological organisation from genes, individuals and populations, to communities and ecosystems. We work within ecology, evolution, physiology, systematics and combinations of these fields in order to understand the impact of natural and anthropogenic changes of the environment.

The department is placed at three different localities: in Gothenburg Botanical garden, at Medicinareberget in Gothenburg and Kristineberg Marine Research Station. The current position is placed in Gothenburg Botanical garden.

Project description 
This project aims to quantify the impacts of genetic variation on the productivity of Norway spruce forests under rising temperatures and more severe droughts. Physiological measurements of photosynthetic thermal acclimation and water-use efficiency will be conducted using existing field trials along a latitude transect from southern France to central Sweden comprising of a broad variety of Norway spruce clones. The results of the physiological measurements will be used to improve the representation of climate acclimation of trees in dynamic growth models to investigate the differences in predicted growth under climate change among genotypes from different provenances. The project is a collaboration between the University of Gothenburg, University of Helsinki and Skogforsk. Expected results include better understanding of the role of genetic heritage on climate change acclimation of trees, improved predictions of the future growth of Norway spruce in Finland and Sweden, and practically applicable information regarding the potential of provenance/genotype selection as a tool for maximizing the economic and environmental benefits of boreal forests.

Duties 
We are seeking a research assistant for field-based measurements of photosynthesis in Norway spruce. The main tasks include participation in gas exchange measurements in the field using the Licor-6800 system and measurements of needle area in a laboratory environment in Gothenburg. The field measurements are planned as two campaigns; the first one from 29 August to 11 September in Sweden, and the second one from 19 September to 2 October in Germany and France. Participation in the field campaigns includes various tasks, such as handling of advanced measurement equipment (instructions will be provided), biomass sampling, and carrying equipment to the measurement sites.

Qualifications 
Eligible to be employed as an assistant researcher is a person with a university degree on a basic or advanced level in ecophysiology, ecology, or related subjects (e.g. environmental science).

We are seeking a motivated person for a position of a research assistant in biology with emphasis on plant ecophysiology. The assessment of candidates will be based on the following essential and advantageous attributes:

Essential attributes:


• Experience of fieldwork under challenging conditions
• Excellent communication skills, written and spoken, in English are necessary since we work in an international environment
• Ability to work well alone and as a part of a group. Excellent ability to cooperate.

Advantageous attributes:


• Knowledge in plant ecophysiology (~ physiological ecology or functional ecology)
• Experience of using ecophysiological methods, especially gas exchange
• Experience of measurement campaigns to study plant responses to climate stress
• Experience of working in a team
• Driving license

The application should preferably be written in English and must include:


• A short cover letter with the applicant’s justification for the application, i.e., that describes how the applicant meets the selection criteria. It is especially important to include a clear description of previous fieldwork experience.
• A list of qualifications (CV)
• Copy of certificate of exam

The top ranked candidates will be selected for an interview, which might be held in English and could also be performed by phone/Zoom.

Employment 
This is a fixed-term employment for two months, 100 %, starting 2022-08-22. 

Contact information for the post 
If you have any questions about the position, please contact 

Dr. Lasse Tarvainen
Email: lasse.tarvainen@bioenv.gu.se

Webpage:
Department 
Group webpage
Publications

Åsa Arrhenius, Head of Department
Phone: +46 31 786 48 02
Email: asa.arrhenius@bioenv.gu.se

Unions 
Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande 

Application 
To apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to create an account in our recruitment system. Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline. 

Applications must be received by: June 17, 2022 


The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.