PhD Fellowship in Biological Psychology
The University of Stavanger is offering a PhD Fellowship in Biological Psychology at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology. This is a three-year full-time doctoral position starting in December 2026 and is intended for candidates who want to develop strong research expertise in an active and interdisciplinary environment.
The fellow will join the UiS Biopsychology Research Group and be affiliated with the PRIME project,
Physiological Reactivity in Health and Disease: Mechanisms and Effects
, led by Professor Bianka Karshikoff. PRIME examines physiological reactivity, or the body’s capacity to respond to stress and immunological challenges, with two main research directions: individual differences in physiological reactivity and their links to health and personality, and early chronic pain as a distinct and understudied population, especially within the first year of persistent musculoskeletal pain.
The project spans psychology, endocrinology, and immunology, and uses experimental methods and physiological biomarkers. The fellowship offers the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research while also developing a sub-study with a clear individual focus in collaboration with the supervisor. The successful candidate will be admitted to the PhD programme in Social Sciences, Research School in Psychology (PSYENCE), which includes coursework, an independent thesis project, dissemination, a trial lecture, and public defence.
Eligibility requires a strong academic background with a five-year master’s degree, or equivalent, in psychology, neuroscience, biomedicine, cognitive science, or a related field. A master’s thesis grade and weighted average grade corresponding to B or better are required. Applicants finishing their master’s degree in autumn 2026 may also apply. The strongest candidates will show clear motivation for biological psychology, psychophysiology, psychoneuroimmunology, stress and/or pain research, experience with quantitative and statistical methods, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Good English skills are required, and laboratory experience or Scandinavian language skills are considered an advantage.
The fellowship is funded with a salary of NOK 580,000 gross per year according to the Norwegian State Salary Scale, with pension and insurance benefits. Additional benefits include free Norwegian language courses, relocation support, access to health and welfare services, and participation in an inclusive academic workplace.
Applications must be submitted through Jobbnorge by 26 November 2026. Applicants must upload a project proposal, CV, degree documentation and transcripts, grade conversion documentation if relevant, publications or other research outputs, and references. The application letter should explain your research interests, motivation, and fit with the project.
