Bjørnar Tessem

The University of Bergen invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow position within Digital Sovereignty, Artificial Intelligence, and Media Innovation at the Department of Information Science and Media Studies. This four-year, full-time position is designed to advance research at the intersection of digital sovereignty, AI, and media innovation, with a strong emphasis on societal relevance and the evolving media industry. The successful candidate will join the department’s media studies environment, including its branch in the Media City Bergen cluster, and will develop an independent research project leading to a doctoral degree. The research focus is on the development of media professions, production, and institutions in light of AI technology, preferably within media and technology companies in the Media City Bergen cluster. Methodological approaches may include qualitative methods such as case studies, interviews, observation, fieldwork, and document analysis. Theoretical perspectives may involve political economy, democracy, and media innovation. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Media Studies or an equivalent foreign qualification. Candidates who have submitted their Master’s thesis by the application deadline are eligible to apply. The minimum requirement is normally a grade of B or better on both the Master’s thesis and the degree as a whole. Applicants should demonstrate the ability to work independently and structured, possess strong collaboration skills, and have excellent written and oral proficiency in English. Good written and oral proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language is also required. The position is based in Bergen and requires daily physical presence at the department. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. The PhD position is for a fixed term of four years, with at least three years dedicated to doctoral research and the remaining time allocated to career-promoting work at the department. The employment period may be reduced if the candidate has previously held a PhD position. As a PhD research fellow, you will participate in the PhD programme at the Faculty of Social Sciences, which corresponds to three years and leads to the PhD degree. Admission requires a Master’s degree (120 ECTS credits) built on a Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS credits) or an integrated Master’s degree (300 ECTS credits). Master’s degrees must include an independent work of at least 30 ECTS credits, and the topic should be connected to the academic field of admission. Applicants must submit a research proposal (5-8 pages, including references) outlining the topic, research problems, theory, methods, and a progress plan. The application must also include a cover letter, names and contact information for two reference persons (one must be the main advisor for the Master’s thesis), CV, transcripts and diplomas, relevant certificates/references, a list of academic publications, and academic publications for assessment. Applications and appendices must be uploaded in English or a Scandinavian language via Jobbnorge. Applications sent as emails or without a project description will not be considered. The position offers a salary as PhD (code 1017) of NOK 593,700 per year, with automatic annual increases for up to four years. Additional benefits include enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and good welfare benefits. The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and inclusivity, encouraging qualified applicants regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, worldview, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or age. Applicants with disabilities, immigrant backgrounds, or gaps in their CV may receive favourable consideration. For further information about the position, contact Professor Bjørnar Tessem (Bjø[email protected]). Practical questions regarding application procedures can be directed to Adviser – HR, Gudrun Horvei ([email protected]). Questions about the PhD programme may be directed to Adviser Elina Troscenko ([email protected]). Application deadline: June 14, 2026. Apply via Jobbnorge using the provided link.