PhD Research Fellow in Cybersecurity Management University of Agder (UiA) in Norway

The University of Agder (UiA) invites applications for a full-time PhD Research Fellow in Cybersecurity Management, based at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Information Systems. The position is located at Campus Kristiansand, Norway, and is offered for three years, or four years with 25% career-promoting work. The successful candidate will join one of Norway’s largest information systems research groups, with over fifty research-active staff and a vibrant academic environment offering bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees in Information Systems, as well as specialized programs in Cybersecurity and Digitalisation.

This PhD opportunity focuses on bridging the gap between technical infrastructure and human behavior in cybersecurity management. Candidates are expected to investigate the interplay between information security and cyberspace security through a sociotechnical lens, addressing both social dynamics and technical frameworks. Research themes may include human cybersecurity behavior, development and erosion of cybersecurity skills, cyber resilience, cyber deception, and the evolving nature of cybercrime. The role encourages exploration of how rapid developments in digital technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, impact cybersecurity practices, covering both offensive tactics and defensive measures.

The University of Agder offers an extensive network of partners, including potential collaboration with Kartverket (the Norwegian Mapping Authority), providing opportunities for empirical research in real-world organizational contexts. Applicants are encouraged to adopt theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches best suited to their research interests, whether at the individual, organizational, or societal level.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree of 120 ECTS credits in Information Systems or a closely related area, with an average grade of B or higher. A scientifically original and academically strong project proposal is required, demonstrating strong analytical skills and fluency in written and oral English. Candidates graduating this year must have submitted their master’s thesis by the application deadline and have their degree formally approved within four weeks after the deadline. Desired qualifications include experience in academic research, project management, academic writing and publishing, teaching experience in higher education, and good pedagogical skills. Personal qualities sought are strong communication and critical thinking skills, proactivity, adaptability, open-mindedness, balance between results and social skills, ability to work independently and in teams, and motivation to contribute to a positive working environment.

The position offers professional development in a large, socially influential organization, a positive and inclusive working environment, modern facilities, and comprehensive welfare benefits. The role is remunerated according to the State Salary Scale, with a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800 and compulsory pension contributions to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link, including all required documentation: academic CV, cover letter, transcripts, diplomas, master’s thesis or abstract, academic works, research proposal, and contact information for two references. All documentation must be available in a Scandinavian language or English. The application deadline is 15 June 2026. For questions about the position, contact Professor Øystein Sæbø ([email protected]). For questions about the application process, contact Adviser Hege Fatland ([email protected]).

Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview, and reference checks will be conducted with the applicant’s permission. The University of Agder is committed to diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.