The University of Agder (UiA) invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow in Environmental Sociology and the Politics of Sustainable/Green Transition, based at the Department of Sociology and Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences. This full-time position (100%) is offered for three years, or four years with 25% career-promoting work, and is located at Campus Kristiansand in southern Norway.

The research focus is on the politics of socioecological transition, including the decarbonisation of economies and the technological and political challenges it generates. Candidates may explore topics such as democratic governance tools and challenges, social movements and discourses around sustainability, environmental governance and related inequalities, populist and far-right responses to green transition, and the social and political consequences of initiatives like the European Green Deal and twin transition policies.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (120 ECTS credits) with an average grade of B or higher in Sociology, Political Science, International Relations, or a closely related social science field. An original and academically outstanding project proposal is required, demonstrating strong analytical skills and excellent command of English (written and oral). The Master’s thesis must be submitted by the application deadline, and the degree approved within four weeks after the deadline. Desired qualifications include knowledge of environmental and political sociology, experience in scientific research and academic writing, teaching experience, good pedagogical skills, and proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (desirable but not required). Scientific publications and personal qualities such as academic excellence, communication skills, flexibility, motivation, and teamwork ability will be considered.

The position offers professional development in a large, socially influential organization, a positive and inclusive working environment, modern facilities, and welfare benefits including voluntary Norwegian language courses. The annual gross salary is NOK 550,800, with a compulsory pension contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. Membership in the pension fund and access to welfare offers are included.

UiA is committed to diversity and encourages qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, age, cultural background, disability, or incomplete CV. The appointment is made by the University’s Appointments Committee for Teaching and Research Positions. Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview, and reference checks may be conducted with the applicant’s permission.

To apply, submit your application electronically via the provided link. Required documentation includes BA and MA diplomas with grade transcripts, Master’s thesis (with English summary if not in English), contact details for two referees, up to two academic publications and a list of publications, and a project description in English (maximum 10 pages). All documentation must be submitted before the deadline and be available in a Scandinavian language or English.

For further questions about the position, contact Amanda Machin (Department PhD Coordinator and Professor) or Victor Lund Shammas (Head of Department). For questions about the application process, contact Lars Solheim (Advisor, Faculty of Social Sciences).

The application deadline is 15 March 2026. Join UiA to contribute to research and teaching in a vibrant academic environment, and help create better solutions to shared challenges in environmental sociology and sustainable transition politics.