PhD Student in Forest Health (Forest Regeneration)

PhD Student in Forest Health (Forest Regeneration)

Linnaeus University

Växjö, Sweden

JOB DESCRIPTION

Fungal-like Phytophthora species that cause root damage to forest trees are on the rise in many parts of the world, including in southern Sweden. By reducing the stability of the trees, they cause both financial losses for the forest owner and pose a safety risk in recreational areas. These pathogens spread through international plant trade and transport and once established in the soil or waterways they are virtually impossible to eradicate. Thus, the subsequent vegetation, including planted or naturally regenerated tree seedlings, must be able to coexist with the infection. However, there is little experimental evidence on the consequences of Phytophthora infection for the long-term development of the forest.

The goal of the PhD project is to develop new knowledge about the ability of deciduous forests to recover from damage caused by soil-borne Phytophthora species, above all in protected areas where natural regeneration is a prerequisite for the forest's continued development. The project uses field studies and controlled greenhouse experiments to obtain detailed information about the effects of Phytophthora infection on the early development, mortality, growth and stress of oak and beech seedlings. Through physiological measurements (metabolism, photosynthesis) and advanced image analysis methods, the plants' responses to the infection are studied. The PhD project also includes responsibility for research communication, which means participating in national and international meetings, as well as writing and publishing both popular science articles and scientific articles.

REQUIREMENTS

A person fulfils the general entry requirements if s/he has:

• Graduated at advanced level in the relevant field (e.g., biology, ecology, forest sciences, environmental sciences);
• Completed undergraduate program of at least 240 ECTS, including 60 ECTS at the advanced level, or the equivalent knowledge obtained in or outside of Sweden.

Specific requirements:

• At least 90 ETCS in subjects relating to the proposed research subject or equivalent knowledge acquired in any other manner within or outside of Sweden;
• Good language skills in Swedish and/or English;
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, as well as excellent communication skills in English, both verbally and in writing;
• A driver's license is required for the position.

Desirable qualifications:

• Practical experience with forest pathology, forest regeneration, or the collection and analysis of spectral data, as well as knowledge of the Swedish language, are considered as merits.

Are you interested in this position? Please apply via the application button and upload your curriculum vitae and cover letter by March 31^st, 2023. Job interviews will be planned for April 2023.

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