Doctoral student in Biology with focus on Vegetation Ecology Karlstad University in Sweden

Karlstad University invites applications for a doctoral studentship in Biology with a focus on Vegetation Ecology, based at the Department of Environmental and Life Sciences. The project addresses urgent questions in ecology and conservation biology, particularly biodiversity loss and the role of ecological restoration in reversing extinction trends. The research centers on non-forest ecosystems, especially Swedish peatlands, which are vital carbon sinks and habitats for specialized biodiversity, including many red-listed plant species.

The main aim is to identify ecological and environmental conditions influencing the recovery of rare species in restored landscapes. The project employs a multi-scale approach, combining broad assessments of species diversity and distribution with targeted case studies to uncover mechanisms driving species persistence and re-establishment. It also examines how species traits, local habitat characteristics, and landscape context shape restoration outcomes, aiming to improve practices for species at greater risk of extinction.

Research will integrate field-based and analytical methods and be conducted in close collaboration with restoration practitioners, ensuring strong links between research and practical application. As a doctoral student, you will join an active research environment, collaborating with researchers in vegetation ecology and applied environmental science, including the River Ecology and Management Group (NRRV), and external partners. Interdisciplinary supervision in biology and geomatics is provided, and you will engage with stakeholders to support evidence-based, adaptive restoration strategies. The project bridges ecological theory and applied conservation, offering opportunities to shape the research direction based on your interests, such as plant ecology, restoration ecology, biodiversity conservation, or quantitative and spatial analysis.

The doctoral programme comprises 240 credits for a Degree of Doctor and 120 credits for a Degree of Licentiate. The appointment is a paid position for four years full-time, with possible extension for departmental duties. Doctoral students are expected to work independently and contribute to the discipline and department, with opportunities to deepen interests in collaboration with others. Teaching and administrative duties may be included but will not exceed 20% of full-time. The position offers freedom and flexibility, requiring commitment, drive, and the ability to structure your work to successfully complete the thesis.

Entry requirements include a second-cycle qualification or equivalent, with at least 240 credits (including 60 at second-cycle level). Specific requirements are at least 120 higher education credits in biology, including a Master's thesis of at least 15 credits, or equivalent knowledge. Documented research experience in botany, ecology, or related fields, formal training in plant identification, quantitative skills (statistical analysis, coding in R/Python), GIS/spatial analysis, and fieldwork experience in botany or vegetation ecology are valued. Academic performance, proficiency in English, and personal qualities such as independence, curiosity, and collaboration skills are considered. Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide degree certificates and transcripts, and contact information for verification.

Applications must be submitted via the university’s web-based recruitment tool Varbi by the deadline. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificate, transcript, Master’s thesis, publications, recommendation letters, and contact information for two references. Documents should be clearly named and translated if not in Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, or English. Incomplete applications may not be fairly assessed. The position is fixed-term, initially one year, with possible extensions. The salary corresponds to the standard level for doctoral students and progresses according to a local collective agreement.

Karlstad University is committed to gender equality, diversity, and a democratic approach, and has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research award. The university offers a stimulating work environment and favorable conditions for researchers. For more information, visit kau.se/en/work-with-us and kau.se/hrs4r.

Application deadline: 2 June 2026. Apply online at Varbi recruitment tool. For questions, contact Bianca Ott Andrade at [email protected].