Doctoral student in the political dynamics of energy transitions Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position in the political dynamics of energy transitions. This opportunity is based in the Department of Technology Management and Economics, specifically within the Division of Innovation and R&D Management, and is part of the interdisciplinary project 'Consensus and Conflict in the Energy Transition.' The project brings together researchers from Chalmers, University of Gothenburg, and RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, combining transition studies and political science to investigate how values and beliefs among policymakers, firms, experts, and citizens influence the pace, direction, and legitimacy of energy transitions.

The research will employ methods such as discourse network analysis, quantitative and qualitative text analysis, surveys, case studies, and interviews to identify and explain mechanisms underlying policy development, technology choices, and societal acceptance, with a focus on contested energy and technology domains. The project is highly interdisciplinary, offering strong scientific ambition and clear policy relevance, and involves close collaboration with leading researchers and societal stakeholders.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (120 credits or 60 credits) or, for those educated outside Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree. Essential qualifications include strong written and verbal communication skills in English, strong analytical skills, documented experience in quantitative and/or qualitative analysis, and a keen interest in political perspectives on energy and climate transitions. Understanding of the Swedish and Nordic context is required. Additional desirable qualifications include experience in interdisciplinary research, combining qualitative and quantitative analysis, familiarity with R, Python, or similar analytical tools, experience with text analysis and survey methodology, knowledge of energy, climate, or sustainability-related policy issues, and proficiency in a Scandinavian language.

The position is fully funded from the start, with a fixed-term appointment of four years and the possibility to teach up to 20%, which can extend the position to five years. The starting salary is 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025), and doctoral students are considered employees with full benefits. Physical presence throughout the study period is required, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment in Gothenburg, with generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. The university is committed to gender balance, equality, and inclusion, and offers Swedish language courses for non-native speakers.

To apply, submit your application via the online form, including your CV (maximum 2 pages), personal letter (maximum 1 page), and transcripts as PDF files. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered. The deadline for applications is April 19, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Hans Hellsmark ([email protected]) or Dr. Petra Bosch-Sijtsema ([email protected]).