Doctoral studentship in Social Work Karlstad University in Sweden

Karlstad University is inviting applications for a doctoral studentship in Social Work leading to a PhD at the Department of Social and Psychological Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. This is a paid doctoral position at a Swedish university with a strong research environment, an interdisciplinary department, and a clear emphasis on curiosity, openness, gender equality, diversity, and democratic values.

The doctoral project is situated in social work research, an area at Karlstad University that focuses on the individual, group, community, and societal levels. The subject combines education and research, and the department highlights practice-oriented relevance, co-creative knowledge processes, and critical perspectives. Central research themes include young people’s life circumstances, exposure to violence, mental health, criminal environments, and child welfare services; user perspectives and participation, including social psychiatry and support for people with autism and ADHD; and the conditions for social work practice in areas such as elderly care, work with migrants, and knowledge-based coordination within social services.

The position is intended for applicants with a strong interest in the university’s social work research environment. As a doctoral student, you will primarily focus on your own research and studies, while also contributing to departmental activities and development. Teaching and administrative duties may be included by agreement, but these will not exceed 20% of full-time. The total appointment corresponds to four years of full-time doctoral study, with potential extension depending on departmental duties.

Eligibility includes the general Swedish doctoral entry requirements as well as specific subject requirements: at least 120 credits in social work or an adjacent subject, including at least 30 second-cycle credits and an independent project of at least 15 credits, or equivalent qualifications. Assessment places particular emphasis on the quality of previous independent research work, the academic quality and relevance of the research plan, independence, organisational ability, and strong English and Swedish language skills. Swedish proficiency is especially important because doctoral courses in social work are primarily taught in Swedish and because it supports access to empirical material for the thesis.

Funding is provided through an employed doctoral studentship with salary at the standard level for doctoral students, progressing under a local collective agreement.

Application deadline: 25 October 2026. Apply in Karlstad University’s Varbi recruitment system and submit a complete application with the required documents, including a cover letter, CV, degree certificates and transcripts, thesis sample, research plan (max 3,000 words), and two references. Reference number: REK 2026/213.