Postdoctoral Fellow in Geography on Plastic Exposure for Children Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) is advertising a 3-year postdoctoral fellow position in geography at the Department of Geography and Social Anthropology in Trondheim, Norway.

The project focuses on plastic exposure for children and aims to develop a traffic light system for identifying geographical and temporal hotspots to reduce children’s exposure to plastic contaminants. The research covers macroplastics, microplastics, visual exposure, and the degradation of nature and cultural values, with Trøndelag County used as a pilot area. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with the Plastic Research Cooperation Group and partners including Trondheim Renholdsverk and Trondheim County Municipality.

This postdoctoral opening is suitable for candidates with a strong background in geography, environmental science, and interdisciplinary research on plastic pollution. The department emphasizes both scientific research and communication, and the role includes academic publications, popular science dissemination, participation in research group activities, applying for research funding, conference participation, and possible research stays abroad. Teaching and supervision at bachelor’s and master’s level are also mentioned.

Eligibility highlights: applicants must have completed a PhD in geography, or be in the final stage with the thesis submitted or a confirmed defense date. The post requires a combined natural science and social science profile, published international research on plastic pollution, experience with interdisciplinary work at a high scientific level, documented scientific and popular science communication, experience preparing research funding applications, strong English, and Norwegian at academic level (minimum B2). Desired experience includes project leadership, teaching, supervision, collaboration with public administration, international plastic research, research administration, and statistical analysis.

Funding and conditions: the position is a paid postdoctoral appointment at NTNU. The salary is normally NOK 633,400 gross per year depending on qualifications and seniority, with standard pension deductions. The appointment period is 3 years, including career-developing work.

Application deadline: 2026-10-01. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no and include transcripts and diplomas, CV, dissertation or draft, research plan, publication list, up to three relevant publications, certificates, and three references. If education was completed abroad, additional documentation of scope and quality is required.