PhD Student in Limnology: Modeling Phytoplankton Succession in Lakes

Are you interested in the driving processes behind phytoplankton succession in lakes and do you want to evaluate how phytoplankton dynamics will change under future environmental changes? Do you want an employer that invests in sustainable employees and offers secure, beneficial working conditions? Welcome to apply for a position as a PhD student at Uppsala University, at the Department of Ecology and Genetics, within the Limnology Program.

The Limnology Program is an internationally recognized work environment with staff and students from all over the world. The program conducts research and education on biogeochemistry and ecology in inland waters, from microscopic to global scales. The program actively promotes a collegial and inclusive research culture through regular social activities, which encourages well-being, creativity, and professional development.

Project Description

Phytoplankton constitute an important foundation for lake food webs, and their composition changes clearly throughout the year in response to physical and chemical changes, as well as predation pressure. These changes are, in turn, moderated by different functional traits between groups, which determine how they react to environmental conditions. Using models, we can study how environmental changes (such as climate warming, eutrophication, and extreme weather) affect succession patterns in phytoplankton and identify conditions that create favorable opportunities for specific functional groups. We can then use these models to assess possible future changes. We are seeking a motivated PhD student who is eager to use process-based biogeochemical models to investigate this dynamics. The results of this work will improve our ability to forecast changes in phytoplankton communities, with direct application to lake ecosystem function and drinking water supply. The position is based at Uppsala University's Department of Ecology and Genetics, within the Limnology Program.

Tasks

Your tasks will have a strong focus on data management and process-based, dynamic modeling, but will also include teaching, course work, and collaboration in research groups.

Qualification Requirements

To meet the eligibility requirements for doctoral studies, you must have:

completed a degree at an advanced level in limnology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, geosciences, biology, environmental technology, or other relevant subjects at the time of employment, or completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits are at an advanced level including an independent project of at least 15 higher education credits, or otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge.

Candidates who have not yet obtained their degree but are expected to meet the requirements by the start date may apply for the position.

This work lies at the intersection of physics, biogeochemistry, and ecology and has a strong numerical component. Eligible candidates need to demonstrate skills with advanced numerical methods (e.g., modeling, statistics, or large-scale data analysis). Some programming experience (for example in R or Python) is required. Candidates must be able to express themselves to a very high degree in both oral and written English. When evaluating candidates, particular weight will be placed on personal qualities such as independence, strong motivation, and ability to cooperate.

Other Desirable/Meritorious Qualifications

• Previous experience with lake models or other process-based models
• Familiarity with processes in lakes such as stratification and aquatic biogeochemical cycles
• Good understanding of phytoplankton ecology

Provisions for doctoral students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen) Chapter 5, Sections 1-7, as well as in the university's rules and guidelines.

About the Employment

The employment is fixed-term, according to HF Chapter 5, Section 7. The scope is full-time. Start date 2027-04-01 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala, Evolutionsbiologiskt centrum (EBC)

Information about the employment is provided by: Jorrit Mesman, jorrit.mesman@ebc.uu.se, +31624542396

The application should include:

• A personal letter describing yourself, your research interests, why you want to pursue a PhD, and why you are suitable for this specific position and project (max 2 pages).
• CV
• A short description of your education.
• A copy of your master's degree and transcripts, as well as a copy of your master's thesis.
• and contact details for at least two references (email address and telephone number).
• Any publications.

Welcome with your application no later than November 25, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/2846.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/

The employment may be subject to security screening. In the case of security screening, approval of the applicant is a prerequisite for employment.

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