PhD Research Fellow in Anthropology of Health and Environment in Africa and Europe (Dual Degree, Fully Funded)
Join the University of Oslo’s Department of Social Anthropology for a fully funded PhD fellowship focused on the anthropology of health and environment in Africa and Europe. This unique dual degree opportunity is part of the EU-funded doctoral training network HEALENAE, which brings together up to 15 PhD students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on research projects addressing health and environmental challenges across continents.
The successful candidate will be based in Oslo and will also spend six months at Makerere University in Uganda, gaining international experience and contributing to a vibrant academic cohort. The research will center on the political economies of epidemic or environmental harm, with opportunities for fieldwork in Africa and/or Europe, participation in annual training schools, and writing retreats. The position is supervised by professors at both the University of Oslo and Makerere University, ensuring interdisciplinary guidance and support.
Applicants must have a master’s degree in social anthropology or a closely related discipline, with strong academic performance (average grade A or B, thesis awarded A or B), and at least three months of ethnographic fieldwork experience. Candidates should demonstrate motivation, capacity for academic writing, willingness to conduct long-term fieldwork, and readiness to work collaboratively across borders and disciplines. Excellent English skills are required, and applicants must meet the language requirements for both institutions. Experience with public engagement and African language skills are advantageous.
The fellowship offers a competitive salary (NOK 550,800 - 595,800 per year), funding for research, travel, conferences, books, and equipment, as well as membership in Norway’s Statens Pensjonskasse with pension and insurance benefits. The position is for three years, with the expectation to complete the PhD within this period. Relocation to Oslo is required, and applicants of any nationality are welcome, provided they have not resided or carried out their main activity in Norway for more than 12 months in the past 36 months and do not already hold a PhD.
To apply, submit your application in English via the JobbNorge portal, including a motivation letter, CV, project description, educational certificates, documentation of English skills, and translations if necessary. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the prospective supervisors before developing their project description. The application deadline is 4 June 2026. For further information about the HEALENAE network and project areas, visit
healenae.eu/phd-calls
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The University of Oslo is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, offering a supportive academic environment and welfare schemes. Adjustments for applicants with disabilities are available. For questions about the position, contact Professors Thorgeir Kolshus or Paul Wenzel Geissler.
