PhD Position in Political Science at University of Bergen University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen, a leading European institution renowned for its high-quality research and education, is offering a PhD position in Political Science within the Department of Government. This four-year, fixed-term appointment includes 25% career-promoting work related to research, teaching, and dissemination. The Department specializes in public policy, organization and administration, democracy and participation, policymaking, and political institutions at local, national, and international levels. Candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Department’s teaching portfolio and research profile.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in political science, public administration, or an equivalent discipline, completed by the application deadline. Master’s students may apply if their thesis has been submitted for evaluation by the deadline. A grade of B or better is required for both the Master’s thesis and overall degree. Proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language is considered an advantage, but excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory. The successful candidate should demonstrate independence, high work capacity, and enthusiasm for research. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview, and personal qualities will be considered in the assessment.

The PhD project must be independent and situated within a relevant and contemporary area of political science, presenting a clearly defined research topic and specific research question. Applicants are encouraged to indicate their preferred supervisor at the Department. The successful candidate is expected to reside and work in the Bergen area during the project period and participate actively in the academic community.

As a PhD research fellow, you will participate in the PhD programme at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Bergen. The programme has a nominal duration of three years and leads to the award of a PhD degree. Admission requires a completed Master’s degree, typically comprising 120 ECTS credits based on a Bachelor’s degree of 180 ECTS credits (3+2 years), or an integrated Master’s degree of 300 ECTS credits (5 years). The Master’s degree must include an independent thesis of at least 30 ECTS credits and should be within the academic field for which admission is sought.

The position offers a stimulating and challenging environment within a strong academic community. The gross annual salary as a PhD research fellow (code 1017) is NOK 568,700 upon appointment, with automatic annual salary increases of 3% for up to four years. Additional benefits include enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and good welfare benefits.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments via Jobbnorge by 7 June 2026. Required documents include a cover letter (max two pages), a concise project proposal (max 3,000 words), transcripts and diplomas, CV, relevant certificates, names and contact details of two referees (preferably including the main supervisor of your Master’s thesis), a list of scientific publications (if applicable), and copies of any publications. Applicants with a foreign Master’s degree or a degree in a field other than political science may need to submit a syllabus overview. All documents must be submitted in English or a Scandinavian language. Applications by email or without a project proposal will not be considered.

For further information about the position, contact Head of Department Anne Lise Fimreite ([email protected]). For practical questions regarding the application process, contact HR adviser Gudrun Horvei ([email protected]). Questions related to the PhD programme may be directed to Adviser Elina Troscenko ([email protected]).

The University of Bergen values diversity and encourages qualified applicants regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, worldview, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and age. The institution applies the principle of public access to information when recruiting staff for academic positions. Applicants with disabilities, immigrant backgrounds, or gaps in their CV are encouraged to apply and may receive favourable consideration.

Campus is located in the centre of Bergen, with university areas at Nygårdshøyden, Haukeland, Marineholmen, Møllendalsveien, and Årstad. The Faculty of Social Sciences comprises seven departments. For more information about the faculty and departments, visit the university website.