PhD Fellow in Chronic Neck Pain Research at Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway UiT The Arctic University of Norway in Norway

A PhD position is available at the Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, within the project "Cupping massage vs tactile massage for the treatment of chronic neck pain: A randomized controlled pilot study investigating pain mechanisms" (MeCNeck study). The position is affiliated with the National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM) and the Health Service Research group. The Department of Community Medicine is a large, multidisciplinary unit with six research groups and several associated research centres, offering a vibrant academic environment for health sciences research.

The MeCNeck study, led by Professor Frauke Musial, aims to investigate the effectiveness of different massage techniques in alleviating chronic neck pain, a condition affecting a significant portion of the adult population in Norway. The project utilizes Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) to measure pain thresholds and nervous system changes, providing valuable insights into non-pharmacological treatment options. The research is funded by Ekhaga Stiftelsen and NAFKAM, and seeks to identify evidence-based alternatives for managing chronic neck pain, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.

The PhD position is for three years and is designed to provide comprehensive research training leading to a doctoral degree. The successful candidate will participate in organized research training, conduct QST investigations, perform data analysis, write and publish scientific articles, and complete a doctoral project. The workplace is located at UiT in Tromsø, and candidates must be able to start within a reasonable time after receiving the offer.

Applicants must hold a relevant master's degree (public health, medicine, health sciences, or equivalent), with proven experience in health science research or clinical trials technology if coming from a technical background. Proficiency in quantitative research methods and relevant software (SPSS, SAS, STATA) is required, along with documented fluency in English. Desired qualifications include expertise in psychophysiology, biopsychology, pain research, clinical studies in humans, and familiarity with the Norwegian healthcare system. Proficiency in Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish is advantageous.

UiT The Arctic University of Norway is committed to promoting equality, gender balance, and diversity, and offers flexible working hours, a state collective pay agreement, and a pension scheme through the state pension fund. PhD Fellows receive a competitive salary (550,800 NOK/year with a 3% yearly increase) and membership in the National Insurance Scheme, which includes health care services. The university provides a supportive academic environment and good career opportunities.

To apply, submit your application via Jobbnorge by the deadline (5 May 2026), including a cover letter, CV, official diplomas and transcripts, documentation of English proficiency, and references. If your master's degree is near completion, submit a draft thesis and a statement from your supervisor or institution. All documentation must be in a Scandinavian language or English. The assessment process involves an expert committee review and interviews for shortlisted candidates.

For further information, contact Professor Frauke Musial at [email protected]. More practical information about working and living in Norway is available at uit.no/staffmobility. Read more about the Faculty of Health Sciences at uit.no/helsefak.