PhD Position in Social Anthropology at University of Bergen University of Bergen in Norway

The University of Bergen, one of Europe's leading universities, is offering a PhD position at its Department of Social Anthropology. This four-year, fixed-term position includes 25% teaching, supervision, and administrative responsibilities, providing a unique opportunity to develop both research and academic skills. The Department of Social Anthropology is among the largest in Europe, with a vibrant intellectual environment, broad expertise across ethnographic regions, and active engagement in scholarly debate and public outreach. The department currently hosts 17 permanent academic staff, 5 postdoctoral researchers, and 25 PhD candidates, and is involved in several major externally funded research projects.

As a PhD research fellow, you will join the Faculty of Social Sciences' PhD programme, which spans three years and leads to a PhD degree. The position is based in Bergen, Norway, and requires daily physical presence at the department, except during fieldwork or approved research travel. The teaching language is primarily Norwegian, with some courses offered in English. The department values diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds and ensuring equal opportunity in the recruitment process.

Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in Anthropology, completed by the application deadline, with a grade B or better on the thesis and overall degree. Proficiency in written and oral English is required, along with academic independence, organisational skills, and the ability to collaborate and contribute to teaching and scholarly activities. Experience in university-level teaching, academic outreach, and public dissemination is advantageous. The application must include a cover letter, project proposal (5-8 pages), CV, transcripts, certificates, list of publications, and reference contacts. If your degree is from outside the Nordic countries or in a different subject area, you may be asked to provide a syllabus overview. Certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language are required for all documents.

The position offers a competitive salary (NOK 593,700 per year) with automatic annual increases for up to four years, enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and good welfare benefits. Priority will be given to research projects that complement the department’s thematic and regional strengths. Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge using the provided link, and only complete applications with a project description will be considered. The deadline for applications is 15 September 2026.

For further information about the department, visit uib.no/antro. For questions about the position, contact Head of Department Geir Henning Presterudstuen ([email protected]). For application procedure queries, contact Adviser – HR Gudrun Horvei ([email protected]). For programme questions, contact Adviser Elina Troscenko ([email protected]).

The University of Bergen is committed to sustainable and democratic development, offering a professionally challenging environment and opportunities for career development. Join a dynamic department and contribute to the advancement of social anthropology through research, teaching, and public engagement.