PhD Candidate in Empirical Software Engineering Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology is offering a full-time PhD Candidate position in Empirical Software Engineering within the Department of Computer Science in Trondheim, Norway.

The project sits in the Software Engineering group and focuses on how software development is changing as agile and continuous software engineering scale to larger organisations, and as AI increasingly supports different stages of the software lifecycle. The position is especially interested in empirical research on real-world practice in Norwegian software companies, with the goal of producing knowledge that can help teams and organisations build higher-quality software.

The successful candidate will conduct empirical studies, contribute to publishable research in journals and conferences, work with project teams and master’s students, and support teaching through lab sessions and supervision. The position also includes career-promoting work agreed with the department, which may involve smaller related research projects or collaboration with organisations in the public and private sectors.

Eligibility is centred on a relevant Master’s degree in computer science or an equivalent field, a strong academic record, and admission to NTNU’s doctoral programme in Computer Science within three months of starting the contract. Applicants must also demonstrate strong English proficiency. A project outline of up to 1500 words is required, describing research questions, theoretical perspectives, methodological design, and a progress plan. Preferred experience includes software engineering or information systems, industry experience, empirical research, scientific publishing, and Scandinavian-language communication skills.

The appointment is a temporary, full-time PhD post with a gross salary normally starting at NOK 580,000 per year, depending on qualifications and seniority. The employment period is 4 years of doctoral work plus 1 year of career-promoting work. NTNU highlights an open and inclusive working environment, supervision and career guidance, mentorship for new employees, and access to employee benefits, including pension arrangements and free beginner-level Norwegian language training.

The application deadline is 8 October 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no, together with academic transcripts and diplomas, CV, master’s thesis, project outline, motivation letter, and details of three referees. If education was completed abroad, additional documentation on scope and quality of the degree may be required.