Research Council of Norway PhD Scholarship

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD scholarship in Environmental Radioactivity, Radiochemistry, and Ecotoxicology, focusing on aquatic ecosystems. The position is hosted by the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management (MINA), a vibrant faculty with a strong research culture and international network. The project aims to advance understanding of how chemical contaminants influence radionuclide transfer and bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms, under ecologically relevant exposure scenarios.

This PhD is part of the Norwegian Nuclear Research Centre (NNRC), an interdisciplinary collaboration between leading Norwegian institutions in nuclear physics and chemistry, including NMBU, University of Oslo, and Institute for Energy Technology. The candidate will work closely with NNRC partners and be integrated into a dynamic academic team with access to a large international network.

Main research tasks include conducting exposure experiments to characterize uptake and bioaccumulation of radionuclides and chemical contaminants in aquatic organisms, performing speciation and bioavailability studies using in situ fractionation techniques, carrying out chemical analyses of water, biota, and sediment samples, and assessing combined toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic effects. The candidate will organize and analyze data, write scientific reports, and disseminate results. A progress plan for the PhD work must be submitted within the first months of appointment.

Applicants must have a relevant master’s degree in environmental sciences, chemistry (including radiochemistry and nuclear chemistry), ecotoxicology, or a similar field. Experience with environmental radioactivity, environmental chemistry, practical field or laboratory work with aquatic organisms, in situ fractionation, bioavailability assessment, speciation modelling, toxicokinetic assessments, effect and biomarker assessment, and radioanalytical techniques is highly valued. Competence in statistics is required. Candidates without prior competence in ionizing radiation must complete a radiation protection course at NMBU. Strong motivation, good social and collaboration skills, ability to work independently, oral and written communication skills in English (and preferably a Scandinavian language), and dissemination skills are essential. Documentation of English proficiency must be provided.

The position is placed in position code 1017 PhD Fellow, with an annual salary of 550,800 NOK. The appointment is for 3 years and follows national guidelines for University and Technical College PhD scholars. Admission to the PhD program is a prerequisite for employment. The application deadline is 20th April 2026.

To apply, submit your application electronically via the University's Web Recruitment System. Register an account, complete the online form, and attach a motivation letter, CV, certified academic diplomas and certificates, diploma supplements, documentation of English proficiency, and any additional relevant documents. Applicants invited for interview must present original diplomas and certificates. For further information, contact Professor Hans-Christian Teien at [email protected].

NMBU is committed to diversity and encourages qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, disability, cultural background, or employment history. The university offers a supportive environment for all employees and students.