University of South-Eastern Norway
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PhD Research Fellow in Systems Engineering – Systems Engineering Learning Ecosystem: competencies for systems engineering, AI and business innovation University of South-Eastern Norway in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Dec 15, 2026
Country
Norway
University
University of South-Eastern Norway
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About this position
This PhD research fellow position at the University of South-Eastern Norway is part of SFI CELECT – the Centre for Effective Engineering and Learning in Complex Systems – and the Industrial Research School in Complex Systems (INRESCOS). The project is based at campus Kongsberg and is embedded in a large collaborative environment linking USN, NTNU and the University of Agder with leading industrial partners in Norway.
The doctoral project focuses on developing and validating a competency framework for systems engineering, AI and business innovation, then translating that framework into work-integrated learning for Norwegian industry. The work is designed to address a practical gap: companies need clearer insight into which competencies their engineers need and how those competencies can be built while employees remain in full-time work.
The fellow will work closely with CELECT partner companies through interviews, surveys, workshops, pilot courses and co-design activities. The project combines qualitative and quantitative research and connects directly to industry practice, with results intended to inform learning modules and micro-credentials for engineers. The position sits within a broader research cluster at campus Kongsberg, where research and industry are closely linked across maritime, defence, aerospace, energy and subsea technology.
The project is part of a work package headed by Gerrit Muller and is one of several related CELECT PhD projects at USN. This opening is specifically centred on competence development and learning, complementing other CELECT doctorates that address early design, validation, life-cycle management and systems-of-systems integration.
During the appointment, the PhD researcher will contribute to the Norwegian Industrial Systems Engineering Research Group (NISE), participate in the CELECT doctoral team across USN, NTNU and UiA, and take part in shared workshops, learning events, conferences and possible research stays abroad. The post offers a highly collaborative research setting with strong links between academic work, industrial learning needs and applied systems engineering innovation.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a master's degree (120 ECTS credits) in Systems Engineering, an engineering discipline, industrial economics and technology management, computer science, or a closely related field. The master’s thesis must have been submitted for assessment by the application deadline and approved before starting. Candidates should have documented knowledge of relevant quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies at master’s level, a weighted average grade of B or higher on the master’s degree and thesis, and meet the formal admission requirements for USN’s doctoral programme in Technology with the topic of Systems Engineering within three months of starting. Preferred qualifications include knowledge of systems engineering and/or business model innovation, competency frameworks, engineering education, workplace learning or learning analytics, understanding of AI in engineering, and industrial experience from Norwegian industry and/or teaching. Proficiency in a Scandinavian language or Norwegian at level B2 is preferred. Excellent written and oral English is required, and international applicants must document English proficiency with an accepted test unless exempt. The applicant must also meet requirements for restricted authorization, export licence clearance, and security clearance.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge using the “Apply for the position” link. Include a short application text describing your skills and motivation, certified diplomas, approved foreign-education recognition if relevant, grading explanation, motivation letter, language evidence if relevant, publications, references, and a passport copy. Only applications and attachments submitted in Jobbnorge before the deadline will be considered.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.