Postdoctoral Fellow in Ecology

University of Gothenburg

University: University of Gothenburg, Sweden
Reference Number: PAR 2025/697
Faculty: Faculty of Arts – HDK-Valand, in collaboration with the Hasselblad Foundation
Employment Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years)
Starting Date: 1 September 2026 (or as agreed)
Application Deadline: 30 January 2026

About the Faculty & Collaboration

• HDK-Valand – School of Art and Design and the Hasselblad Foundation collaborate to support photographic research.
• The postdoctoral fellow will be part of the unit for film, photography, and literature, focusing on the intersection of photography with nature, environment, ecology, and climate.
• The Plants & Symbiosis: Expanding Photography project explores photography’s role in botany and ecology from multidisciplinary perspectives, including ecofeminism, indigenous knowledge, and sustainable technologies.

Role Overview

The postdoctoral fellow will:

• Conduct independent, practice-based or practice-led research in photography, lens-based technologies, or photographic methods.
• Contribute to research and teaching at HDK-Valand and collaborative activities with the Hasselblad Foundation.
• Present projects in artistic, public, and academic contexts.
• Engage in research symposia, educational seminars, and exhibitions.

Primary Focus Areas:

• Innovative approaches to contemporary nature photography
• Archival and photohistorical studies relevant to ecology and conservation
• Intersection of photography, technology, and ecological research
• Ethical and critical perspectives on environmental and technological issues

Eligibility & Qualifications

Required:

• Doctoral degree (or equivalent) in relevant fields (art, photography, visual culture, or interdisciplinary studies)
• Degree obtained no more than three years prior to application (exceptions possible for special circumstances)
• Strong knowledge and experience in photography, art, and visual practices
• Ability to design and execute an independent, innovative project
• Communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Ethical and critical approach to subject matter and technology

Desirable:

• Practice-based or practice-led artistic research
• Engagement with interdisciplinary projects (e.g., conservation, citizen science, XR storytelling)
• Teaching experience

Application Requirements

1. Project description (max. 6,000 characters) outlining research plan
2. CV including bibliography and three references
3. Portfolio: two examples of previous work related to the call + a 1-page account of research activities
4. Copies of educational certificates/diplomas

Language: Applications may be submitted in English or Swedish.

Employment & Benefits

• Full-time (100%) for 2 years, based at HDK-Valand, Gothenburg
• Work primarily on campus; remote work may be allowed per university regulations
• Participation in research, teaching, exhibitions, and collaborative projects
• Opportunity to contribute to innovative, internationally connected photographic research

Contacts

• Position inquiries: Linda Sternö, Head of Unit – linda.sterno@gu.se
• Recruitment process inquiries: HR, HDK-Valand – hr@hdk-valand.gu.se