PhD Candidate in Sociology at the University of Bergen University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen invites applications for a PhD Candidate position at the Department of Sociology. This four-year, full-time position offers an excellent opportunity to join a vibrant academic and social science environment in Bergen, Norway. The Department of Sociology is part of the Faculty of Social Sciences and collaborates with national and international sociology groups. The department is known for its broad research profile, covering topics such as welfare, youth, family, life course, mobility, inequality, migration, gender, class, elites, and education.

As a PhD candidate, you will dedicate at least three years to doctoral research, with the remaining time allocated to career-promoting activities within the department. The position includes teaching responsibilities at both the bachelor's and master's levels, and the language of instruction is primarily Norwegian, with some courses taught in English. The department values independent work, high research capacity, enthusiasm, and motivation to teach. Personal and interpersonal skills, ambition, and potential are also important selection criteria.

Applicants must hold a completed master's degree in social science, preferably in sociology, with a minimum grade of B or higher for both the thesis and the degree. The master's degree should be completed before the application deadline and must normally include an independent project worth at least 30 credits. The degree should be based on a bachelor's degree of 180 credits or an integrated master's degree of 300 credits. Proficiency in written and oral English is required, and applicants are encouraged to link their project to ongoing research at the department.

The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 593,700, with automatic salary progression for up to four years and a 3% annual increase. Additional benefits include enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and access to welfare benefits. The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or age. Moderate gender quotas may apply if candidates have similar qualifications.

To apply, submit your application and all required documents via the Jobbnorge portal by August 31, 2026. Required documents include a project description (5-8 pages), CV, transcripts and diplomas, relevant certificates, publication list (if applicable), and names/contact details of two references (one must be the principal supervisor of your master's thesis or equivalent). Applications sent by email or without a project description will not be considered. Only attached documents will be evaluated.

For further information about the position, contact the head of department, Katharina Sass ([email protected]). Practical questions about the application process can be directed to HR advisor Gudrun Horvei ([email protected]), and questions about the PhD program can be addressed to Elina Troscenko ([email protected]).

The University of Bergen is a renowned educational and research institution, organized into seven faculties and approximately 54 institutes and academic centers. The campus is centrally located in Bergen, with university areas at Nygårdshøyden, Haukeland, Marineholmen, Møllendalsveien, and Årstad. The Faculty of Social Sciences comprises seven departments, offering a dynamic and supportive environment for research and teaching.

Join UiB and contribute to high-quality research and education in sociology, while benefiting from excellent academic resources, welfare benefits, and a commitment to sustainable and democratic development.