Fully-Funded Dual PhD Fellowships in Social Anthropology: Health and Environment in Africa and Europe University of Oslo in Norway

The University of Oslo (UiO) is offering three fully-funded dual PhD fellowships in Social Anthropology, focusing on the anthropology of health and environment in Africa and Europe. These positions are part of the EU-funded doctoral training network HEALENAE, which brings together 15 PhD students to collaborate across sectors and countries, fostering an international cohort dedicated to interdisciplinary research. The fellowships are hosted by the Department of Social Anthropology at UiO, with two positions in partnership with Makerere University (Uganda) and one with the University of Cape Town (South Africa).

Successful candidates will be admitted to the Faculty of Social Sciences' PhD programme at UiO and also to the doctoral programme at either Makerere University or the University of Cape Town, depending on the position. The programme includes annual training schools, writing retreats, and a mandatory six-month research stay at the secondary university. Research topics include: metabolic impact and agricultural intensification, infrastructures of toxic evidence and civic protection, and the business of epidemics and natural disasters. Candidates will conduct fieldwork in Africa and/or Europe and are expected to reside in or near Oslo for the duration of the fellowship.

The positions offer a competitive salary (NOK 550,800–595,800 per year), funding for research, travel, conferences, books, and equipment, and membership in one of Norway's best pension schemes. Additional benefits include good welfare schemes and opportunities for exercise during working hours. UiO is committed to equality, inclusion, and diversity, and encourages applicants from all backgrounds, including those requiring workplace accommodations.

Applicants must have a master's degree in social anthropology or a closely related discipline, with strong academic results (A or B average and thesis grade), and at least three months of ethnographic fieldwork experience. Excellent English skills (oral and written) are required, and documentation must be provided for both UiO and the partner institution. Experience with public engagement and African language skills are advantageous. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Norway for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment and must not already hold a PhD.

To apply, candidates must submit a motivation letter, CV, project proposal (including research questions, background literature, methods, and ethical considerations), educational certificates, and documentation of English proficiency. Applications must be submitted via the Jobbnorge system by 1 March 2026. Interviews will be conducted with shortlisted candidates, and the recruitment process is governed by Norwegian regulations to ensure fairness and transparency.

For further information, contact Professors Paul Wenzel Geissler ([email protected]) or Ruth Jane Prince ([email protected]). More details about the research areas and application process can be found at HEALENAE PhD Calls and Jobbnorge Application Portal.