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University Centre in Svalbard

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PhD in Arctic Water Quality Change from Permafrost Thaw University Centre in Svalbard in Norway

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Sep 30, 2026

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Country

Norway

University

University Centre in Svalbard

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Keywords

Chemistry
Environmental Science
Hydrology
Earth Science
Geochemistry
Redox Biology

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About this position

UNIS (University Centre in Svalbard) is advertising a PhD position in Arctic Water Quality Change as a consequence of Permafrost Thaw in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. The project uses Svalbard as a natural laboratory to study how climate-driven permafrost degradation exposes pyrite-rich shales, leading to oxidation processes that can release sulphuric acid, nutrients, trace metals such as manganese and iron, mercury, and other solutes into surface waters.

The research combines geochemistry, environmental science, earth science, hydrology, and chemical analysis. Planned work includes laboratory microcosm experiments on rock and permafrost cores, monitoring drinking water quality in Longyearbyen, and assessing nutrient export to coastal ecosystems. The project aims to build predictive understanding of water quality changes under ongoing permafrost thaw.

The position is a PhD opening with either a four-year contract including one year of required duties or a three-year contract without those duties. Funding includes base salary, a Svalbard allowance of NOK 44,640 per year, travel and relocation support up to NOK 10,000, insurance, and staff housing according to regulations.

Eligibility highlights include a relevant master’s degree completed by 1 October 2026, strong background in aqueous geochemistry and mineral weathering, experience with laboratory experiments and analytical techniques such as ICP-OES/ICP-MS and ion chromatography, environmental sampling and fieldwork in harsh Arctic conditions, strong data analysis skills, and fluent English. Admission to the doctoral program at NTNU is required.

Applications must be submitted through JobbNorge with a motivational letter, CV, transcripts/diplomas, and two references. The deadline is 30 September 2026.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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