PhD Fellowship in Public Safety, Underground Applications and Spatial Analysis University of Stavanger in Norway

PhD Fellowship in Public Safety, Underground Applications and Spatial Analysis at the University of Stavanger, Norway.

The University of Stavanger invites applications for two PhD fellowships within the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Safety, Economics, and Planning. The positions are part of the Research Centre for Innovative and Sustainable Underground Use (CISU), a Centre for Research-Driven Innovation funded by the Research Council of Norway. The project sits at the intersection of public safety, underground infrastructure, geographic information science, and spatial analysis, with a strong focus on how cities can plan and use underground space more sustainably and resiliently.

Research activities will focus on mapping and analysing underground conditions in pilot cities including Stavanger, Trondheim, and Tromsø. The work will use GIS-based methods as the primary foundation and may also involve digital twins, photogrammetry, spatial modelling, and integration of geological and infrastructure data. Students will examine existing underground infrastructure, critical societal functions, planning values, and opportunities for moving functions underground. The projects are comparative and collaborative, involving close work with city partners and participation in co-creation arenas within CISU.

The PhD programme is in Science and Technology and includes coursework, an independent research project, a doctoral thesis, dissemination, a trial lecture, and public defence. The fellowship is for three years of pure research training. There are also opportunities for international research stays and collaboration, with possible stays in Singapore, Helsinki, and Switzerland.

Eligibility highlights include a five-year master's degree in Geographic Information, Risk Management, Societal Safety, Urban Planning, or a related field, with a master's thesis grade and weighted average grade at B level or better. Strong skills in GIS and spatial analysis are advantageous, as is familiarity with Norwegian planning systems and digital spatial technologies. English proficiency is required for admission, and international applicants may need TOEFL, IELTS, CAE/CPE, or PTE evidence unless exempt.

The position is externally funded by the Research Council of Norway. The salary is NOK 580,000 gross per year in State Salary Scale code 1017, with progression during the employment period and pension membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. Additional employee benefits include free Norwegian language courses, wellness support, relocation support, and access to campus and public welfare benefits.

Application deadline: 18 November 2026, 23:59 (Europe/Oslo). Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge with a project proposal, CV, degree documents, transcripts, diploma supplement, English documentation if required, publications, and references.