Research Engineer (Postdoc Position) in Plant Biology at SLU, Sweden

A new Research Engineer position is available at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Umeå, Sweden, for researchers with expertise in molecular plant biology, glycan biochemistry and plant cell wall research. The position is based in the Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology at the Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC) and is part of the Niittylä research group.

The successful candidate will join a research project investigating the role of galactans in plant cell wall biosynthesis, using Populus and Arabidopsis as model plant systems. This opportunity may be particularly relevant to researchers with a PhD and postdoctoral experience who are interested in plant molecular biology, glycoprotein analysis, cell wall biology, microscopy, proteomics and advanced carbohydrate research.

Research Engineer Position: Key Details

Category	Details
Position	Research Engineer
Research area	Galactosyl hydrolases and transferases in plant cell wall biosynthesis
Department	Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology
Research centre	Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC)
University	Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
Location	Umeå, Sweden
Employment	Indefinite-term employment
Probation	May be used by SLU
Working hours	Full time, 100%
Start date	1 November 2026 or as agreed
Application deadline	24 August 2026
Reference number	SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2345
Working schedule	Day
Employment level	Permanent employment
Occupation area	Technical/administrative
Organization	SLU, Faculty of Forest Sciences, Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology

About the Umeå Plant Science Centre

The Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC) is a major centre for experimental plant research and forest biotechnology in Northern Sweden. The centre brings together researchers working across a broad range of plant science disciplines. Research extends from molecular and cellular biology to ecophysiology, biotechnology and applications relevant to forestry and agriculture.

The overall research mission is to understand how plants grow, adapt and acclimate to changing environmental conditions and how scientific knowledge can contribute to the development of better plants. UPSC’s research also has broader implications for forestry, agriculture, environmental science and sustainable development. Researchers at the centre work in an interdisciplinary environment where fundamental biological research can connect with practical and industrial applications.

About the Research Project

The Research Engineer will join the Niittylä group at UPSC. The project focuses on understanding the role of galactans in plant cell wall biosynthesis. The research will use both Populus and Arabidopsis as experimental model systems. Plant cell walls are essential structures that provide mechanical support, regulate cell growth and contribute to the interaction between plants and their environment.

Understanding the molecular processes involved in cell wall formation can therefore provide important insights into plant development, biomass properties and plant biotechnology. A central component of this position is the study of arabinogalactan protein glycosylation. The work will also involve the identification and characterization of GH43 and CAGE targets, using a combination of advanced experimental approaches.

Research Methods and Techniques

The successful candidate will work with a range of modern techniques used in plant cell biology and biochemical research. The position involves:

• Cell biology techniques
• Molecular biology methods
• Proteomics
• Glycoprotein analysis
• Microscopy
• Plant cell wall analysis
• Glycan biochemistry
• Arabinogalactan protein characterization
• Advanced analytical approaches for plant cell wall research

The project will make use of state-of-the-art cell wall analysis techniques established at the UPSC biopolymer analytical platform. This provides an opportunity for the researcher to work within an advanced analytical research environment and contribute to a specialized area of plant molecular and biochemical science.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants should have a PhD and postdoctoral experience in molecular plant biology and glycan biochemistry. The position is intended for researchers who have a strong interest in experimental plant research, particularly research involving plant cell walls. Candidates should be comfortable working in an interdisciplinary research environment and should demonstrate relevant research experience.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should have:

• A PhD in a relevant field
• Postdoctoral research experience in molecular plant biology and glycan biochemistry
• A strong interest in experimental plant cell wall research
• Good written English communication skills
• Good oral English communication skills

Desirable Experience

Experience in the following areas would be considered an advantage:

• Plant cell wall research
• Microscopy
• Glycoprotein analysis
• Molecular biology
• Arabidopsis research
• Populus research
• Glycan biochemistry
• Plant cell biology
• Proteomics and related analytical techniques

Candidates who can demonstrate a combination of molecular biology expertise and biochemical knowledge may find this position particularly relevant.

Why This Research Position Could Be Valuable for Your Career

This position offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of plant molecular biology, glycan biochemistry, cell wall biology and forest biotechnology. The research environment at UPSC provides access to advanced analytical platforms, plant growth facilities and unique tree germplasm resources.

For researchers interested in building an academic or research-oriented career in plant science, the position also offers exposure to interdisciplinary research and specialized experimental technologies. The centre supports researchers at different career stages through professional training opportunities and individual career mentoring.

About SLU and UPSC

The Umeå Plant Science Centre is jointly associated with Umeå University and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. Approximately 200 people from more than 40 nationalities work at UPSC, with around 30 principal investigators leading research groups.

Researchers have access to:

• State-of-the-art analytical platforms
• Plant growth facilities
• Specialized experimental resources
• Unique tree germplasm collections
• Interdisciplinary research expertise
• Professional training opportunities
• Individual career mentoring

The research environment emphasizes collaboration and aims to support scientists throughout different stages of their careers.

Working at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, commonly known as SLU, plays an important role in research and education related to sustainable development. The university’s work focuses on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems, as well as the responsible use of natural resources.

SLU contributes to research and education in areas connected with sustainable societal development and improved living conditions. Its major campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, while the university also operates research stations, experimental forests and teaching facilities across Sweden.

SLU has approximately 4,000 employees and 6,000 students and doctoral students, with an annual turnover of more than SEK 4.5 billion. The university also emphasizes an inclusive working environment and gender equality, with the aim of bringing together people with different experiences and perspectives to support scientific creativity, discussion and development.

Employment Conditions

The position is offered as an indefinite-term employment. SLU may initially use probationary employment where applicable. The position is full time, with a scope of 100%. The expected starting date is 1 November 2026, or another date agreed upon between the successful candidate and the university. The position is located at the Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, SLU, Umeå, Sweden.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is 24 August 2026. The position was published on 14 August 2026, meaning prospective applicants should begin preparing their documents as soon as possible. Applicants should make sure that their supporting documents clearly demonstrate their research experience and relevance to the project.

Documents Required for the Application

The application should include the following five components:

1. Motivation Letter

Applicants should provide a motivation letter explaining their interest in the position and how their background relates to the research project.

2. CV With Full Publication List

The CV should include a complete publication list and provide sufficient information about the applicant’s academic and research background.

3. Relevant Degree Certificates

Copies of relevant degree certificates should be included with the application.

4. Description of Research Experience and Interests

Applicants should provide a description of their previous research experience and current research interests. This section can be particularly useful for demonstrating experience in molecular plant biology, glycan biochemistry, plant cell wall research or related areas.

5. Referee Information

Applicants should provide the names of people who are willing to act as referees. It is advisable to select referees who are familiar with the applicant’s research experience, technical abilities and academic work.

Application Reference Number

The official reference number for the position is: SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2345 Applicants should use the reference number when communicating about the vacancy or preparing application materials where appropriate.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through Apply for this position recruitment system. Applicants will need to log in or register to submit an application.

The application should be completed before the deadline of 24 August 2026.

Contact Person

For questions concerning the position, applicants can contact:

Totte Niittylä
Prefekt
Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

Telephone: 090-786 83 55
Email: totte.niittylä@slu.se

Important Dates at a Glance

Application deadline: 24 August 2026

Expected start date: 1 November 2026 or as agreed

Employment: Indefinite-term, with probationary employment potentially applicable

Workload: 100%, full time

Location: Umeå, Sweden

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Research Engineer position at SLU about?

The position focuses on the role of galactans in plant cell wall biosynthesis. The research will investigate arabinogalactan protein glycosylation and GH43 and CAGE targets using Populus and Arabidopsis model systems.

Where is the Research Engineer position located?

The position is based at the Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Umeå, Sweden.

What academic qualification is required?

Applicants should have a PhD and postdoctoral experience in molecular plant biology and glycan biochemistry.

Is postdoctoral experience required?

Yes. The advertised profile specifically asks for applicants with a PhD and postdoctoral experience in molecular plant biology and glycan biochemistry.

Is experience with plant cell walls necessary?

Applicants should have an interest in experimental plant research on cell walls. Previous experience with cell wall research is listed as an advantage.

Is experience with Arabidopsis required?

Experience with Arabidopsis is considered a merit rather than an explicitly mandatory requirement. Experience with Populus is also advantageous.

What laboratory techniques are relevant to this position?

Relevant experience includes cell biology, microscopy, glycoprotein analysis, molecular biology, proteomics and plant cell wall analysis.

What is the employment type?

The position is advertised as an indefinite-term, permanent full-time position. SLU may use probationary employment.

Is the position full time?

Yes. The position has a scope of 100% and is a full-time role.

When does the position start?

The expected starting date is 1 November 2026, or another date agreed upon with the successful candidate.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 24 August 2026.

What documents are required?

The application should contain a motivation letter, CV with a full publication list, relevant degree certificates, a description of research experience and interests, and the names of referees.

What is the reference number for the vacancy?

The reference number is SLU.ua.2026.2.5.1-2345.

Who can applicants contact about the position?

The listed contact person is Totte Niittylä, Prefekt, who can be contacted by telephone at 090-786 83 55 or by email at totte.niittylä@slu.se.