PhD Resource Fellowship: Comfort and the Interior (Architecture & History) Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO) in Norway

The Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO) invites applications for a fully funded PhD Resource Fellowship titled "Comfort and the Interior." This opportunity is offered by the Institute of Architecture and focuses on the forces shaping architectural interiors—past, present, and future. The position is designed for candidates interested in exploring the complex interplay of architectural, environmental, and cultural practices that define interior spaces, with particular attention to the evolving concept of "comfort."

Research topics may include technical aspects (light, heat, ventilation, construction), legislative frameworks (regulations affecting interiors), and cultural dimensions (social expectations, dress, furnishing, habitation, and wellbeing). The project encourages both historically informed and technically advanced analyses, and proposals may draw from architectural history, history of technology, building technology, preservation, or cultural studies. Candidates are invited to frame their investigation using diverse lenses, such as forensic analysis of historical interiors, studies of contemporary building envelopes, or research into new environmental models for interior occupation.

The fellowship is embedded within AHO's research group for Circular Architecture and Material Flows and is connected to ongoing doctoral projects at the Oslo Centre for Critical Architectural Studies (OCCAS). The successful candidate will join a vibrant academic community, benefiting from AHO’s expertise in architecture, landscape architecture, urbanism, and design. The Institute of Architecture is known for its research-based teaching and focus on sustainability, computation, housing, and local building.

Funding and Benefits: The PhD scholarship is fully funded, with an annual salary of NOK 550,800 (subject to a 2% pension deduction). There is no tuition fee. The position is full-time for four years and includes 25% teaching responsibilities. An annual sum of NOK 25,000 (total NOK 75,000) is provided for literature and academic activities. Additional benefits include attractive welfare provisions, a generous pension agreement, and access to Oslo’s family-friendly cultural and outdoor opportunities.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in architecture, architectural history, art history, preservation, architectural technology, or related fields, completed by May 2026. Proficiency in English is required, demonstrated by TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent Cambridge certificates, unless exempted by citizenship or prior education in English-speaking countries. Experience in academic writing and working with archives is advantageous for history-related proposals; experience in projective practice is advantageous for technology-related proposals. Candidates should be ambitious, systematic, and motivated, able to work within deadlines and contribute to a positive work environment. Residency in Oslo during the employment period is mandatory.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include an application letter, project outline, CV, list of publications, examples of written work or projective practice, certified copies of educational certificates, transcripts, diplomas, letters of recommendation, and contact details for two references. Only applications meeting all formal requirements will be considered. The fellowship will commence on September 1, 2026.

For further information, candidates may contact Professor Tim Anstey ([email protected]) or Steinar Westhrin Killi ([email protected]). General information about the PhD Programme is available at AHO PhD Programme. The Oslo School of Architecture and Design values diversity and encourages qualified candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Arrangements will be made for applicants with disabilities.

Application deadline: February 23, 2026.