PhD in Agroecological Performance Assessment – Crop Production Science Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Sweden

The Department of Crop Production Ecology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) offers a dynamic research environment focused on resilient and sustainable crop production systems. The department is part of the Ecology Centre and collaborates closely with the Department of Ecology, addressing challenges such as increased demand, climate change, environmental impact, and biodiversity loss in agricultural and food systems.

This PhD position in Agroecological Performance Assessment is embedded within the international AGRITASC project, funded by the Agroecology Partnership/FORMAS. The research aims to develop robust, context-sensitive tools for evaluating agroecological (AE) practices, moving beyond short-term yield metrics to capture environmental, agronomic, and socio-economic outcomes. The project spans diverse European farming systems, including Living Labs in Sweden, Estonia, Germany, Romania, and Spain, and emphasizes adaptation to the complexity and diversity of cropping systems.

As a PhD student, you will engage in three interconnected research areas: (1) reviewing and refining agronomic assessment tools and models, comparing AE and conventional practices across Living Labs; (2) building an integrated assessment framework by combining refined components into a multi-criteria decision-analysis structure; and (3) applying this framework to evaluate performance, linking agronomic and ecological outcomes with socio-economic results to identify trade-offs. The work involves direct stakeholder interaction, synthesis and quantitative analysis, scientific writing, and participation in dissemination and engagement activities, including policy-relevant briefs and practical guidance.

SLU provides a supportive and inclusive work environment, with main campuses in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, and research stations throughout Sweden. The university is committed to gender equality and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. The PhD position is based in Uppsala, with full-time employment for four years.

Applicants must hold a second-cycle (MSc) degree in agronomy, agroecology, agricultural systems, or a related field, or have completed at least four years of full-time study with one year at second-cycle level. Required qualifications include a solid understanding of agricultural production systems, experience with quantitative analysis, strong interest in agroecology, proficiency in English, and stakeholder collaboration skills. Meritorious qualifications include Swedish language skills, experience with sustainability assessment frameworks, transdisciplinary research, knowledge of European agriculture, and a valid driving licence for Sweden. Personal qualities such as independence, collaboration, initiative, structured task management, and positive team contribution are highly valued.

To apply, submit your application via the provided link, including your written application, CV, degree project, degree certificate and transcript, two personal references, and evidence of English proficiency. Non-Swedish citizens must provide an attested copy of their passport information page. The application deadline is April 15, 2026. For more information about doctoral studies at SLU, visit the university's website.