Postdoctoral Researcher in Biogeochemistry Focus on Mercury in the Arctic

The Department of Environmental Science is one of the largest departments at the Faculty of Natural Sciences. The department consists of four units with over 170 researchers, teachers, doctoral students and technical/administrative staff from over 30 countries. Research and teaching focus on chemical pollution, atmospheric science, biogeochemistry and ecotoxicology. As an employee at the Department of Environmental Sciences, you will be part of a dynamic environment with research in leading areas, excellent education and a strong international profile.
Research at the Department of Biogeochemistry focuses on the cycles of carbon, nutrients and trace metals on land, in water and in the atmosphere, and their interaction with human activities and climate. The unit has a strong and long-term research focus on the impact of global warming on Arctic environments with the overall goal of improving the system understanding and future projections of biogeochemical cycles in this system.

The Biogeochemistry Unit is now seeking a postdoctoral researcher with a focus on the biogeochemistry of mercury in the Arctic Ocean.

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Environmental Science.

Project description

Arctic shelf sediments are known to accumulate significant amounts of land-derived material. Our mapping of mercury burial rates in the Arctic Ocean suggests that these sediments may serve as a much larger sink for Hg than previously recognized. As such, they could store invaluable information on the fate of Hg exported from land. If the sources of this Hg were identified, the sediment compartment could provide crucial insights for refining estimates of Hg fluxes into the Arctic Ocean and determining the residence time of Hg in its biologically important shelf waters. This project aims at identifying and mapping sources of Hg in AO sediments and ccharacterizing the exchange of Hg between the dissolved and particulate phase.

Main responsibilities

Conduct source tracing of mercury in Arctic sediments through isotope measurements of Hg in already collected material. Carry out experimental studies aimed at improving our understanding of mercury's availability for desorption. Evaluate and present the obtained research data. Supervision of students during their thesis work and assisting in the supervision of PhD students may be included.

Qualification requirements

Postdoctoral positions are appointed primarily for purposes of research. Applicants are expected to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

The degree must have been completed at latest before the employment decision is made, but no more than three years before the closing date. An older degree may be acceptable under special circumstances. Special reasons refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a strong interest in research related to the position’s focus. During the recruitment process, particular attention will be given to research proficiency. Special emphasis will be placed on the applicant’s knowledge and skills within the subject area, ability to express themselves orally and in writing, analytical skills, creativity in scientific thinking, initiative and independence, as well as the ability to collaborate with others.

Previous experience in research related to the biogeochemistry of mercury in the Arctic and/or other marine systems using isotope fractionation is advantageous. Selection will be based on the quality and ambition of previous work, scientific publications, references, a cover letter motivating the candidate’s interest, and interviews. Collaboration skills and proficiency in English are required.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date beginning of 2025 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Associate Professor, Sofi Jonsson, sofi.jonsson@aces.su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.