PhD Research Fellow in Social Science – Sport, Organization, and Working Life at Nord University Nord University in Norway

Nord University’s Faculty of Social Sciences is offering 1-2 temporary full-time PhD Research Fellow positions in Social Science, focusing on sport, organization, and working life. The positions are affiliated with the Research group for Sport and Society (RESPONSE) and are linked to the Social Policy and Welfare specialization in the PhD programme. The research environment is active in social science sports research, and the PhD project may address topics such as working conditions in sport, recruitment and career trajectories of volunteer leaders, labour migration and vulnerability in professional sport, voluntary organizations as employers, professionalization of expertise, implications for children’s and youth sport, and hybridization between voluntary, private, and public sectors.

The position is based in Bodø, Norway, and physical presence during working hours is expected. Applicants must have a bachelor’s and master’s degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in a relevant social science discipline or history. Degrees in the humanities or other relevant fields may be considered. Solid knowledge of social science theories and methods is required, and admission to the PhD programme is a prerequisite. A B average in the master’s degree is typically required. Strong English skills, both written and oral, are necessary, and documentation may be required for applicants from outside the Nordic countries. The dissertation may be written in English or Norwegian (or another Scandinavian language). Candidates who already hold a PhD are not eligible.

Funding includes a salary according to the Norwegian government’s pay scale (currently NOK 550,800 per year), statutory contributions to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, excellent loan, insurance, and pension schemes, flexible working hours, and a creative, collegial work environment. The application deadline is January 20, 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a project proposal, cover letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, documentation of PhD admission requirements, master’s thesis, and references. All documents must be uploaded as attachments to the electronic application form.

For further information, contact Professor Anne Tjønndal ([email protected]) or Professor Christian Lo ([email protected]) at Nord University. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in sport studies, social science, working life, sport organization, voluntary organizations, professionalisation of sport, labour migration, youth sport, and hybridisation in the sport sector.