PhD position on the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Project EUARTHURS - Arthurian Emotions: Transmission, Evolution, Cultural Legacies University of Iceland in Iceland

The University of Iceland invites applications for a full-time PhD position as part of the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Project EUARTHURS - Arthurian Emotions: Transmission, Evolution, Cultural Legacies. This position is based in the Faculty of Icelandic and Comparative Cultural Studies and forms part of a European doctoral network dedicated to a cross-cultural, interdisciplinary study of the Arthurian legend from its medieval Welsh origins to its global cultural impact.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant international consortium, collaborating with PhD students and researchers at Bangor University, Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa, Université Clermont Auvergne, Universiteit van Amsterdam, and Zürich University. The main supervisor is Professor Sif Ríkharðsdóttir (University of Iceland), with Professor Raluca Radulescu (Bangor University) as co-supervisor and Sofia Lodén (Stockholm University) as consultant.

The research focus is on the transmission, evolution, and cultural legacies of Arthurian emotions, examining how emotional codes and practices are conveyed in literature and cultural artefacts, including visual imagery and medieval objects. The project will involve comparative analysis of Chrétien de Troyes' romances and related motifs across select languages such as Middle English, Old Norse, Scandinavian languages, Middle High German, and Italian, as well as associated artefacts. Training will be provided at the National Museum of Iceland.

Funding is provided through the Marie Sklodowska-Curie salary scheme, offering a monthly grant of EUR 5,570 (living allowance) plus EUR 710 (mobility allowance), totaling EUR 6,280 per month. Where applicable, a family allowance may also be available. Salary is paid in Icelandic króna (ISK) and subject to Icelandic taxation and collective agreements. The position is for three years, with a preferred start date of 24 August 2026 or as mutually agreed.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in comparative literature, medieval studies, or literature (Scandinavian, English, or German) with knowledge of medieval literature. Background in archaeology, art history, or museology is optional. Preference will be given to candidates with language skills in Old Norse and other languages relevant to the project. Evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or higher, TOEFL equivalent, or experience in an English-speaking environment) is required. Additional eligibility criteria include not having resided or carried out main activity in Iceland for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment and not yet having been awarded a doctoral degree.

To apply, submit your application via the University of Iceland's online portal, including a letter of motivation, certificates of degrees, letters of recommendation, and evidence of language skills. Recruitment is conditional on formal application and acceptance into the doctoral programme. All applicants will be informed of the outcome after the deadline. Applications may remain valid for six months after the deadline. The recruitment process involves joint selection with the EUARTHURS consortium, and application materials will be shared with the Principal Investigator and Project Manager at Bangor University for screening purposes, in accordance with GDPR protocols.

For further information, contact Professor Sif Ríkharðsdóttir at [email protected]. More details about the University of Iceland, its faculties, and doctoral studies can be found at www.hi.is.