Rikard Eriksson

Umeå University, one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions, is renowned for its dynamic research environment and commitment to societal transformation. The Department of Geography, with over 40 employees, offers a vibrant setting for research and education in planning, economic geography, tourism, and natural resource use. The university is now seeking a PhD student in Human Geography to contribute to research on regional development and green industrial investments, focusing on strategic planning during periods of rapid change. This PhD project, starting September 1, 2026, is a collaboration between the Department of Geography, the Industrial Graduate School at Umeå University, and Region Västernorrland. The Industrial Graduate School provides a multidisciplinary platform, offering tailored courses and a three-month internship with an external partner. The doctoral student will join a leading research environment on regional development and be affiliated with the interdisciplinary programme “A Promised Land?” at the Centre for Regional Science (CERUM). The research will examine the regional scale’s role in major green industrial establishments, with a particular focus on Region Västernorrland. Key themes include the impact of large-scale investments on regional development, business dynamics, and labour markets, as well as multi-level governance, strategic spatial planning, regional diversification, development traps, and the social and labour market effects of rapid structural change. The thesis should include at least two sub-studies, such as governance tensions, global value chains, firm dynamics, and labour market transitions. The project is expected to primarily use quantitative analyses and document analysis, with potential for interviews depending on chosen sub-projects. Eligibility requires admission to doctoral studies in Human Geography, a second-cycle degree, at least 240 ECTS credits (with 60 at second-cycle level), and at least 90 ECTS credits in Human Geography or a related subject. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Swedish and English, insight into social science research, and interest in green transition, business dynamics, or labour market developments. Experience with regional policy, planning, or development issues, quantitative research methods, and datasets is meritorious. Strong independent, analytical, and structured work abilities are highly valued. The position is full-time for four years, with salary according to the doctoral student scale. Teaching duties (up to 20 percent) may extend the employment period. The application must include a research proposal, personal letter, CV, degree certificates, theses/publications, additional merits, and contact details for two referees. Applications must be submitted via the university’s e-recruitment system by May 8, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be considered, but ongoing theses may be included if examined during the spring semester. A degree certificate is required before appointment. For further information, contact Professor Rikard Eriksson (project leader) at [email protected] or Associate Professor Madeleine Eriksson (Director of Doctoral Studies) at [email protected]. The position offers an excellent opportunity to engage in impactful research on regional development and green industrial investments in a rapidly evolving context.