PhD Fellowship in Public Health / Community Nutrition with Systems Approach University of Agder (UiA) in Norway

The University of Agder (UiA) is offering a fully funded PhD fellowship in Public Health / Community Nutrition, with a focus on systems approaches to dietary interventions and health promotion. The position is based at the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, specifically within the Department of Nutrition and Public Health, and is affiliated with the prioritized research center 'Food and Nutrition in a Life Course Perspective.' The successful candidate will work on the project 'Diet for Life in the Setesdal Region, Agder,' which aims to promote health and well-being by facilitating healthy dietary choices in the local population. The project utilizes a systems approach to identify and implement interventions that strengthen and improve the local food system, working across multiple levels and community arenas in the Setesdal region.

The PhD fellow will contribute to follow-up research within the project, focusing on advancing a healthy and sustainable diet among the population. The position is for three years and requires enrollment in UiA's PhD program at the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences. The research will address major public health challenges related to diet, non-communicable diseases, and health inequalities, emphasizing the need for structural interventions and complex systems thinking in public health research, policy, and practice.

Applicants must have a master's degree in community nutrition, public health science, or a closely related field. Proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language, as well as English, both written and spoken, is essential. Desired qualifications include experience in community-based nutrition work, structural public health initiatives at local or regional levels, project management related to structural interventions, and familiarity with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods. The ability to work flexibly, collaboratively, and independently is important, along with strong communication skills and a high level of personal motivation and organizational ability.

The position offers participation in a leading research center, professional development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive work environment, modern facilities, and membership in the Norwegian State Pension Fund. The annual gross salary is NOK 550,800, with mandatory pension contributions. UiA encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, age, cultural background, disability, or gaps in CV, and men are especially encouraged to apply. The appointment is made by the Appointment Committee for teaching and research positions at UiA, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and reference checks.

Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link, including all required documentation: transcripts, motivation letter (max 1 page/500 words), master's thesis, scientific work, and certificates. All documents must be in a Scandinavian language or English. The application deadline is December 3, 2025. For further information about the position, contact Professor Frøydis Nordgård Vik ([email protected]) or Professor Elisabet Rudjord Hillesund ([email protected]). For questions about the application process, contact HR advisor Daniel Øverdahl Perkis ([email protected]).

UiA is a large, open, and inclusive university located on two modern campuses in Kristiansand and Grimstad, with over 1,500 staff and nearly 14,000 students. The university is committed to advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges through research, teaching, and collaboration.