PhD Position in Social Dimensions of Ecosystem Restoration and Forest Management Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Sweden

This PhD position at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is based in the Department of Forest Ecology and Management, focusing on the social dimensions of ecosystem restoration within Sweden’s forests. The doctoral project is part of the broader 'Restoration Futures in Sweden’s forests for biodiversity & human well-being' initiative, which aims to explore how Sweden can scale up the European Union’s Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) and address the needs and values of individual private forest owners. The research will connect human and environmental goals across rural landscapes, engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration with ecological analysis from the 'Blue Leads Green' project and the Wallenberg Initiatives in Forest Research (WIFORCE).

The PhD student will have the opportunity to co-design their research, potentially investigating topics such as stakeholder needs, values, and aspirations, the relationship between human perceptions and ecological restoration, adoption of alternative forest management strategies, multilevel governance, and integration of societal processes in restoration science. The project encourages interdisciplinary approaches, combining social scientific analysis with natural scientific research.

The research environment is diverse, collaborative, and inclusive. The main supervisor is Associate Professor Harry Fischer (SLU), with co-supervision from Assistant Professor Irina Mancheva (Umeå University). Both supervisors are social scientists and will support the student in developing strong foundations within environmental social sciences. The student will join the 'Restoration Futures' research group and participate in seminars and intellectual activities at SLU and Umeå University.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a social scientific field related to sustainability, or at least 240 credits with a minimum of 60 credits at second-cycle level. Experience with qualitative social scientific methods, English language proficiency (English B/6 or equivalent international qualification), a valid driver’s license, and fluency in Swedish are required. The position involves extensive fieldwork in remote locations and the ability to travel for up to one month at a time. Evaluation criteria include academic performance, writing samples, project plans, analytical and communicative skills, independence, and ability to complete tasks within deadlines. Additional merits include knowledge of forestry and forest policy, experience with human values for nature, interest in EU politics and policy, proficiency in qualitative/ethnographic methods, basic forest ecology, teamwork, and a passion for science.

The PhD student will be employed for four years, with salary progression set by local collective agreement. The position is based in Umeå, Sweden, with a 100% scope and preferred start date in fall 2026. The department comprises about 115 people, including 9 professors, and is committed to advancing the understanding and management of forest ecosystems. SLU offers a supportive work environment characterized by inclusivity and gender equality, welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds.

To apply, submit your application via the provided link by May 18, 2026. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, research project idea, copies of degrees and certificates, master’s thesis, relevant publications, and contact information for two professional references. Applications must be written in English. Applicants invited to interview must provide attested copies of degree certificates and transcripts. For more information about the department, research environment, and application process, visit the provided URLs.