Fully Funded PhD Fellowship in Social Anthropology: Health and Environment in Africa and Europe (Dual Degree, University of Oslo & Makerere University) University of Oslo in United Kingdom

Join the University of Oslo’s Department of Social Anthropology for a fully funded PhD fellowship focusing on the anthropology of health and environment in Africa and Europe. This unique dual degree opportunity, in collaboration with Makerere University (Uganda), is part of the EU-funded doctoral training network HEALENAE, which brings together up to 15 PhD students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects. The successful candidate will be one of three PhDs based in Oslo, working within the framework of 'Political economies of epidemic or environmental harm.'

The fellowship offers a professionally stimulating environment, annual training schools, writing retreats, and a 6-month research stay at Makerere University. Fieldwork will be conducted in Africa and/or Europe, and the candidate will participate in international cohort activities, fostering cross-sectoral and cross-country insights. The position is fully funded, with a competitive salary (NOK 550,800–595,800 per year), research and travel funding, conference participation, books and equipment support, and membership in Norway’s best pension scheme. Welfare benefits and exercise time are also included.

Applicants must have a master’s degree in social anthropology or a closely related discipline, with an average grade of A or B and a thesis awarded A or B. At least 3 months of ethnographic fieldwork experience is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to complete writing projects within deadlines, willingness to conduct long-term fieldwork, work interdisciplinary, and contribute to a larger team. Excellent English skills (oral and written) and documentation for both institutions are mandatory. African language skills and public engagement experience 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 hold a PhD.

The application process requires a motivation letter, CV, project description (with research questions, background literature, sites and methods, ethical considerations), educational certificates, and documentation of English skills. All documents must be submitted in English or Scandinavian, and translations are required for other languages. Applications must be submitted via the JobbNorge portal by 4 June 2026. Prospective candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors, Professor Thorgeir Kolshus and Professor Paul Wenzel Geissler, before developing their project description.

The University of Oslo is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Adjustments for applicants with disabilities are available. The Department of Social Anthropology is highly ranked, with a strong tradition of ethnographic research and public engagement. This fellowship offers the chance to contribute to meaningful societal development and knowledge advancement in health and environment across continents.

For more information about the HEALENAE network and the project areas, visit healenae.eu/phd-calls. For application details and to apply, visit JobbNorge. For questions, contact Professor Thorgeir Kolshus ([email protected]) or Professor Paul Wenzel Geissler ([email protected]).