PhD Candidate in Political Science/Public Policy and Administration – Cybersecurity Governance in Critical Public Infrastructures Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Sociology and Political Science at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate position in Political Science/Public Policy and Administration, with a research focus on Cybersecurity Governance in Critical Public Infrastructures. NTNU is a leading broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile, headquartered in Trondheim, Norway, and renowned for its commitment to knowledge creation and societal impact.

This four-year PhD position, including one year of teaching and promotion work, offers an excellent opportunity for scientific development and career advancement in higher education and research. The successful candidate will join the active research group Public Policy and Administration, engaging with a broader international network of researchers in Public Administration, Management, and Digital Government.

The PhD project aims to investigate how sector-specific institutional contexts shape the governance of cybersecurity in critical public infrastructures. Candidates may focus on sectors such as energy, transport, education, or health, analyzing differences in governance models and exploring how administrative capacity, regulatory design, risk exposure, and public–private collaboration contribute to these variations. The project seeks to identify institutional arrangements that enable effective coordination between governmental authorities and private actors, developing a comparative framework for understanding alternative pathways to cybersecurity governance. Applicants are expected to propose research that contributes to this comparative agenda, drawing on theoretical perspectives from public administration, governance, or digital government studies. Qualitative or mixed methods approaches are welcome.

Duties include completing doctoral education, conducting high-quality research, publishing academic and popular science work, participating actively in the research group, attending international conferences and workshops, and teaching in relevant study programs. The position requires adaptability to organizational changes and compliance with NTNU regulations.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in Political Science, Social Science interdisciplinary digitalisation-oriented programmes, Public Management, Public Governance, Public Administration, or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 ECTS credits at master's level and a master's thesis of at least 30 ECTS credits. Master's students may apply if the degree is completed before starting. A strong academic background (average grade B or better) is required. Admission to the Doctoral Programme in Social Science is mandatory. Experience with qualitative research, strong English skills, and a high-quality project proposal are essential. Preferred qualifications include experience with qualitative data collection and coding, familiarity with NVivo or Atlas.ti, knowledge of digital transformation/digital government, and proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, working expenses funding, membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, free Norwegian language training at basic level, and access to employee benefits. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The city of Trondheim provides a vibrant cultural scene, excellent welfare services, and opportunities for education and family life.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline (1st September 2026). Required documents include transcripts and diplomas, CV, master's thesis or draft, project outline, and names/contact information of three referees. Answer position-related screening questions in Jobbnorge. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Barbara Zyzak ([email protected]).

NTNU is committed to responsible research assessment and recognizes a wide range of academic contributions. The appointment is carried out in accordance with the principles of the State Employees Act and export control legislation. Physical presence at the institution is required for professional and social interaction.

For more information about NTNU and the Department of Sociology and Political Science, visit the university website. Join NTNU and contribute to knowledge for a better world!