PhD Research Fellow in Global Development and/or Planning University of Agder (UiA) in Norway

The University of Agder (UiA) invites applications for 1–3 full-time PhD Research Fellow positions in Global Development and/or Planning, affiliated with the Department of Global Development and Planning at the Faculty of Social Sciences. The positions are based at Campus Kristiansand, Norway, and offer a three-year contract, with the possibility of a four-year appointment including 25% career-promoting work. The starting date is negotiable.

The Department of Global Development and Planning is an interdisciplinary hub, offering Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs in Global Development Studies and Planning. Its staff bring together expertise in development studies, planning, human geography, anthropology, and other critical social sciences, focusing on both the Global North and South. PhD candidates will join one of the department’s research groups, contributing to innovative and impactful research.

Applicants are invited to propose projects aligned with one or more of the following themes:

• Contested Energy Transitions: Explore critical perspectives on low-carbon and renewable energy transitions, examining tensions around land use, environmental concerns, democratic legitimacy, and local development. Projects may address social justice, institutional capacity, local governance, and community engagement with new energy infrastructures.
• Reimagining and Repoliticizing Planning: Critically analyze dominant trends in contemporary planning, such as sustainability, smart cities, and green transitions. Investigate how planning concepts are institutionalized, communicated, and contested, and how marginalized communities use art, visual culture, or social media to challenge mainstream agendas.
• Challenges and Alternatives in a Polarized and Unequal World: Study the impacts of global crises—inequality, political polarization, climate change, environmental degradation, and more—on vulnerable populations. Examine responses, strategies, and alternatives for livelihoods, rights, and freedoms, with a focus on generational change and democratization in the global South.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree (120 ECTS credits) with an average grade of B or higher in social sciences relevant to the themes. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in English (written and oral) are required. Candidates nearing completion of their master’s degree may apply if their thesis is submitted by the deadline and the degree is approved within four weeks after. Desired qualifications include scholarly originality, research experience, academic publishing, and teaching experience. Personal qualities such as high work capacity, independence, collaboration, communication skills, and motivation for a positive academic environment are valued.

Funding: The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with compulsory pension contributions and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. UiA provides a positive, inclusive, and diverse working environment, modern facilities, and comprehensive welfare offers.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link. Required documents include certificates with grades, master’s thesis, references, academic work and R&D projects, a project description (maximum 7 pages), and any other relevant documentation. All documents must be in a Scandinavian language or English. The application deadline is August 1, 2026.

For questions about the position, contact Arnhild Leer-Helgesen (Head of Department) at [email protected]. For application process inquiries, contact Hanna Jarstø Ervik at [email protected].

UiA is committed to diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview, and background checks may be conducted with consent. The university reserves the right to publish applicant names in accordance with Norwegian law.

Join UiA to contribute to knowledge creation and address global challenges in development and planning.