Fully-Funded Dual PhD Fellowships in Social Anthropology: Health and Environment in Africa and Europe

Join the Department of Social Anthropology at the University of Oslo (UiO) for a unique, fully-funded dual PhD opportunity focused on the anthropology of health and environment in Africa and Europe. Three PhD fellowships are available, with two positions in collaboration with Makerere University (Uganda) and one with the University of Cape Town (South Africa). Successful candidates will be part of the EU-funded HEALENAE doctoral training network, working alongside an international cohort of 15 PhDs to address pressing issues at the intersection of health, environment, and society. PhD fellows will be admitted to the Faculty of Social Sciences' PhD programme at UiO and to the doctoral programme at either Makerere University or the University of Cape Town, depending on the position. The programme includes annual training schools, writing retreats, and a six-month research stay at the secondary university. Research areas include: metabolic impact of agricultural intensification and health transformations, infrastructures of toxic evidence and civic protection, and the business of epidemics and natural disasters. Candidates will conduct fieldwork in Africa and/or Europe and are expected to reside in or near Oslo for the duration of the fellowship. Applicants must have a master's degree in social anthropology or a closely related discipline, with strong academic performance (A or B average and thesis grade). A minimum of three months of ethnographic fieldwork experience is required, along with demonstrable writing skills, motivation, and willingness to work interdisciplinarily and as part of a diverse team. Excellent English proficiency is mandatory, and documentation of language skills for both institutions is required. Experience with public engagement and African language skills are advantageous. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Norway for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment and must not hold a PhD. The fellowship offers a competitive salary (NOK 550,800 - 595,800 per year), funding for research, travel, conferences, books, and equipment, and membership in Norway's Statens Pensjonskasse with excellent pension and insurance benefits. UiO is committed to equality, inclusion, and diversity, and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. The application must include a motivation letter, CV, project proposal, educational certificates, and documentation of English skills. Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge by 1 March 2026. For questions, contact Professor Paul Wenzel Geissler at [email protected]. For more information about the research areas and application process, visit HEALENAE PhD Calls and Jobbnorge Application Portal . The University of Oslo is Norway’s oldest and highest ranked educational and research institution, offering a stimulating academic environment and opportunities for professional growth.