PhD Position in Science Education, Digital Learning, and STEM Didactics at Halmstad University (LeaDS/FontD) Högskolan i Halmstad in Sweden

Högskolan i Halmstad (Halmstad University) is inviting applications for a doctoral student (PhD) position in science education, with a focus on digital learning environments and STEM didactics, as part of the LeaDS research program and the national graduate school FontD. The position is funded by the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet) and is affiliated with both Halmstad University and Linköping University.

The LeaDS program (Learning in a Digital Society) explores how digitalization transforms education, learning, and society. Research themes include digital tools in education, AI in learning environments, digital literacy, and the development of smart, sustainable cities. The program is multidisciplinary, involving education, informatics, computer science, and social sciences, and addresses critical, ethical, and sustainable uses of digital technology in learning.

The doctoral project will focus on science and technology education (STEM) and digital learning environments. Applicants may be admitted to doctoral studies in Informatics/Digital Learning at Halmstad University or in Science and Technology Didactics at Linköping University, depending on their background. Research topics may include digitalization in schools, AI in STEM education, and interdisciplinary challenges in digital learning, with science/technology as the primary focus.

Eligibility requires a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field (informatics, information systems, interaction design, computer science, educational science, or similar). For the Linköping University track, a teaching degree and at least 90 ECTS credits in a relevant science/technology subject, including a thesis, are required. Good English proficiency is necessary. Experience in teaching, science subjects, and didactics is advantageous. Selection is based on academic ability, independence, collaboration, planning, completion of previous work, and relevance of research interests to the graduate school.

The position is full-time for four years (with possible extension up to five years) and is salaried according to the university's doctoral student salary scale. The doctoral student will primarily focus on their research education but may also participate in teaching or administration (up to 20% of time). The research environment is dynamic and multidisciplinary, with opportunities to collaborate across education, informatics, and digital technology fields.

To apply, submit your application via the Högskolan i Halmstad job portal by 2026-03-01. Include a statement of intent (max four A4 pages) reflecting on your research interests in relation to the graduate school's focus. For more information, see the full call and eligibility details at the provided job link. For questions, contact Professor Pernilla Nilsson ([email protected]).

Keywords: science education, digital learning, STEM education, didactics, artificial intelligence, educational technology, digitalization, teacher education, informatics, learning environments.