Call for a Scientific Lead in the Planetary Biology Strategic Area at SciLifeLab

SciLifeLab is seeking a Scientific Lead to further develop the Planetary Biology strategic area  (PB) – connecting the unique competences of SciLifeLab’s infrastructure platforms, technologies, and data-driven science with the research communities in the field of environmental life sciences.

PB is a diverse, dynamic and evolving research area with strong global impact. We encourage an inclusive definition ranging from single molecules and cells to species, communities, ecosystems and their services for the planet.

The PB strategic area is currently led by Olga Vinnere Pettersson (Scientific Lead) together with a reference group of three Co-Leads – Nathaniel Street, Jacob Höglund and Anders Andersson – supported by the Scientific Coordinator, Anabella Aguilera. 

Through this call, SciLifeLab aims to expand the leadership team by appointing an additional Scientific Lead, who will work with the existing leadership to shape the future direction of the Planetary Biology strategic area. Further Co-Leads will be recruited in the future to strengthen coverage across the breadth of the Planetary Biology research community.

Together with the existing Planetary Biology leadership, the newly appointed Scientific Lead will identify and develop synergies across key opportunities, including:
i) SciLifeLab’s infrastructure and platforms;
ii) current and emerging scientific communities within Planetary Biology;
iii) the DDLS program and relevant research areas; and
iv) national and international collaborations, funding opportunities, and strategic initiatives.

The Scientific Lead will also play a central role in driving fundraising efforts and facilitating dialogue with Swedish universities, SciLifeLab’s national sites, governmental agencies, and industry partners.

Assignment

Candidates should be at the senior group leader or professor level in their career stage, with a well-documented track record in cross-disciplinary research within environmental life sciences. Existing appointment is required at any of the Swedish universities. Candidates should be able to dedicate up to 30% FTE for this assignment.

SciLifeLab will compensate the host department of the selected candidate with a fixed sum as support for the assignment according to commitment.

SciLifeLab is committed to represent the nation-wide community of researchers, hence we strongly encourage applications from scientists outside Uppsala University.

We expect the ideal candidate to have:

• Interest and ability to devote a part of their time over several years to plan and execute activities of the PB at SciLifeLab.
• A strong scientific background and excellent communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of at least two technology platforms offered at SciLifeLab.
• Documented expertise and interest in one or more areas in relevant molecular aspects of planetary biology (e.g. biodiversity, molecular ecology, evolution, environmental monitoring).

We also value:

• A solid track record of research funding.
• A well-established network and strong connections within the planetary biology community in Sweden
• Experience and expertise in areas of planetary biology that do not overlap those of the Lead and Co-Leads.

We offer:

• An exciting environment, working with the entire SciLifeLab organization and major national stakeholders, such as universities, government organizations and funding agencies.
• An important national role, with high visibility.
• Opportunity to interact across the nation, in collaboration with major research programs, such as DDLS.
• Support for task coordination, meeting arrangements and communication.
• Ability to influence decisions on calls for equipment and technology development projects at SciLifeLab.

Application and selection process

• The total assignment time available for this task is up to 0.3 FTE total.
• The call opens on December 15 and closes on January 20th.
• Selection process and interviews with top candidates will take place in February 2026, and the candidate will be nominated by the SciLifeLab Board by March 2026.
• The planned start of the assignment is April – June 2026. The nomination will be initially made for one year, but the successful candidate should be able and interested to continue for the duration of the current government budget cycle i.e. until the end of 2028.

The application should include:

• Cover letter (0,5-1 page) summarizing your personal motivations for this assignment, as well as education, experience, research area etc. that make you a strong candidate for this position. Please specify your present role and position in your organization.
• Short description (max 1 A4 page) of initial ideas and plans for the development of PB at SciLifeLab.
• CV of a maximum of 5 pages (including only selected publication list).

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20th January 2026

For questions please, contact infra@scilifelab.se