PhD Position in Arctic Pelagic Ecology at the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) University Centre in Svalbard in Norway

The University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Arctic pelagic ecology, affiliated with the national research program Arctic Ocean 2050. UNIS, located in Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost institution for higher education and specializes in Arctic studies, offering research-based courses at all levels. The Department of Arctic Biology at UNIS focuses on integrated High-Arctic biology, with research themes including climate change biology, seasonal ecology, and biodiversity.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant, international research environment and work with zooplankton data from the High Arctic to address knowledge gaps in life history strategies, phenology, and the distribution of key zooplankton species. The project aims to improve estimates of pelagic secondary production in the central Arctic Ocean and advance understanding of the role of zooplankton in the biological carbon pump. The PhD candidate will analyze existing datasets, participate in Arctic Ocean 2050 research cruises to collect new material, and conduct experimental work. There will also be opportunities to work with data from optical and acoustic sensors.

The position offers a four-year contract including one year of required duties (such as teaching assistance and data management), or a three-year contract without these duties. The candidate will be fully integrated into the Arctic Ocean 2050 zooplankton team, collaborating with colleagues from UNIS, UiT, and other institutions. Duty work may include teaching assistance, supervision of students, and support for departmental research activities.

Applicants must hold (or complete by July 1, 2026) a master’s degree in marine ecology, biology, marine science, or a related field, and meet the requirements for admission to the doctoral program at UiT. A minimum grade of 'B' or equivalent in the master’s degree is required. Essential qualifications include experience in marine fieldwork, willingness and ability to participate in Arctic research expeditions, proficiency in statistical data analysis (R and/or Python), and strong English language skills. Additional desirable skills include experience in Arctic pelagic ecology, population dynamics, experimental work with zooplankton, large dataset analysis, image analysis, molecular techniques, and a valid class B driver’s license for Svalbard.

UNIS offers a competitive salary with a Svalbard allowance (NOK 44,640 per annum), membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, excellent insurance schemes, coverage of travel and relocation expenses (up to NOK 10,000), and staff housing. The Svalbard income tax rate is 8%, with a 2% pension contribution and 7.6% national insurance contribution deducted from salary. The working language is English, and digital Norwegian language courses are available during employment.

Applications must include a motivational letter, full academic CV, transcripts and diplomas (or confirmation of degree completion by July 1, 2026), and contact information for two references (one must be your master's supervisor). All documents must be uploaded via the Jobbnorge portal. The application deadline is April 7, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Malin Daase, Dr. Janne Søreide, or Dr. Sünnje Basedow at the provided email addresses.

UNIS values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. The institution prioritizes applicants from countries with security policy cooperation with Norway (EU/EEA or NATO members). The selection process includes evaluation by a departmental committee and interviews with shortlisted candidates. The appointment is made by the Director of UNIS based on committee recommendations.