PhD Candidate in Sports Science – Risk Culture and Health in Elite Handball Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Sociology and Political Science at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim invites applications for a PhD Candidate in Sports Science, focusing on risk culture and health in elite handball. NTNU is a leading broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile, offering a vibrant academic environment with 9,000 employees and 43,000 students. The successful candidate will join the Skill and Performance Development in Sports and School (SPDSS) research group and participate in a broader international network in sport psychology.

This four-year PhD position (including one year of teaching/promotion work) offers an excellent opportunity for scientific development through designing, conducting, and disseminating research on a contemporary topic. The project investigates the tension between performance and health in elite handball, a sport marked by high physical intensity, frequent injuries, and a strong performance culture. The research aims to contribute important knowledge on facilitating safe and healthy development environments in Norwegian handball.

The project comprises four sub-projects using mixed methods: (1) a quantitative study of elite handball athletes' willingness to prioritize performance over health; (2) a qualitative study of athletes' experiences; (3) a qualitative study of micro stakeholders (coaches, trainers, medical staff); and (4) a qualitative study of macro stakeholders (regional and national sports confederations). The candidate will be expected to carry out high-quality research, publish academic and popular science outputs, actively participate in the SPDSS group, attend international conferences and workshops, and teach in relevant study programs.

Applicants must hold a relevant social science master's degree in Sports Science or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 ECTS credits at master's level, including a master's thesis (minimum 30 ECTS). Master's students may apply if the degree is completed before the start date. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better (NTNU scale) or equivalent. Weaker grade backgrounds may be considered with evidence of suitability for PhD studies. Admission requirements for the Doctoral Programme in Social Science must be met. Applicants should have a good project proposal, experience with quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative analysis (mixed methods), and strong written and oral English skills. Familiarity with R, Stata, NVivo, or equivalent software is preferred, and proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language is advantageous.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, working expenses funding, mentor programme, free Norwegian language training (A2), and favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. The employment period is four years, including one year of teaching/promotion work. The candidate must gain admission to the PhD programme in Social Sciences – specialization Political Science within three months of the employment contract start date and participate in an organized doctoral programme throughout the period of employment. Physical presence at NTNU is required for academic and social interaction.

NTNU values diversity and aims to reflect the diversity in society, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The university offers a supportive environment, career guidance, and access to employee benefits. The city of Trondheim provides a rich cultural scene, excellent welfare services, and opportunities for education, nature, and family life.

To apply, submit your application electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline (1 September 2026). Attach transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor's and Master's degrees, CV, Master's thesis or draft, project outline, motivation letter, and names/contact information of three referees. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. Ensure all documents are in Norwegian, a Scandinavian language, or English. For questions about the position, contact Professor Stig Arve Sæther ([email protected]).