Postdoctoral researcher in aerosol emissions from streams

Department of Forest Ecology and Management  

Scientific background

Atmospheric aerosols are microscopic particles that influence weather and climate, contribute to biogeochemical cycling, and facilitate the dispersal of organisms. Aquatic systems can release aerosols into the atmosphere through processes such as bubble bursting, which have been studied extensively in oceans. However, whether and how these processes operate in streams remains poorly understood.

Streams differ from oceans in their hydrodynamics and water chemistry, potentially affecting how particles are captured by bubbles and potentially transferred to the atmosphere. Recent observations suggest that streams contain ice-nucleating particles that could become airborne, raising the possibility that boreal streams represent an overlooked source of atmospheric aerosols. The magnitude of these emissions, the mechanisms driving them, and the environmental factors controlling them remain largely unknown

About the position  

The postdoctoral researcher will investigate the hypothesis that streams emit aerosols to the atmosphere and identify the mechanisms and environmental conditions governing these emissions. A central task will be to develop a flux chamber to capture aerosols emitted from stream surfaces and quantify aerosol fluxes using online particle counters and air filtration for laboratory measurements of ice-nucleating particles. The chamber is planned to be deployed in both controlled experiments and field studies in natural boreal streams. The job also includes water sampling and measurements of physicochemical water and bubble properties.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to experimental design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, scientific publication, and other forms of research communication. The position will be supervised by Associate Professor Marcus Klaus.

The successful candidate will be expected to work independently while collaborating closely with other members of the research team and external partners. The research environment will provide opportunities to develop scientific expertise, establish collaborations, and strengthen the candidate's professional development and academic career prospects.

Your profile

We are seeking a motivated and dedicated researcher with expertise at the interface of aquatic and atmospheric sciences and a strong interest in air–water exchange processes. Applicants must hold a PhD in atmospheric sciences, aquatic sciences, physics, environmental engineering, or a related discipline. 

The applicant must have demonstrated experience in measurements of aerosols, suspended particles and/or air-water mass exchange (particles or gases) and experience conducting laboratory and/or fieldwork in aquatic and/or atmospheric systems. A track record of scientific writing and publishing in peer-reviewed journals is also required, as are excellent written and spoken English skills.  

Experience in one or more of the following areas will be considered an advantage:

• Air filtration, aerosol sampling, and particle counting
• Droplet freezing assays
• Bubble and/or turbulence characterization
• Programming and data analysis using tools such as R or MATLAB
• Engineering, instrument development, or practical skills relevant to designing and constructing the flux chamber  

In addition to scientific qualifications, emphasis will be placed on personal suitability, including scientific curiosity, initiative, the ability to work independently, and a constructive and collaborative approach to teamwork. 

As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree that is three years old at most.

About us  

The title will be employed at The Department of Forest Ecology and Management. The department includes about 120 people of which 9 are professors. Our mission is to advance the understanding of forest ecosystems and how these should be managed today and in the future.

For more information: http://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-ecology-management/

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:

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

1 January 2027 or by  agreement

 Application:

Please submit your application before deadline 16 November 2026. You can submit your application by clicking the button below. Your application must contain:

1. A cover letter (max 2 pages) motivating your qualifications and interest in conducting this project.

2. A CV (max 2 pages) including the following headings: education, work experience, awards, publications, presentations and conferences, software and computer skills, languages, and contact information for at least two references.

3. PhD degree certificate.

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 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 4,5 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.