PhD Research Fellowships in Sociology at the University of Oslo, Norway
The University of Oslo’s Department of Sociology and Human Geography is offering an exceptional opportunity for 1–2 PhD Research Fellow(s) in Sociology. These prestigious fellowships are open to motivated individuals seeking to advance their academic careers at one of Norway’s top-ranked social science departments.
About the Fellowship
The position is available as either:
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Three-year fellowship without teaching duties, or
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Four-year fellowship including 25% compulsory work, primarily teaching responsibilities.
Fellows will conduct independent research aligned with their project proposal, supervised by the department’s academic staff. The successful candidate(s) will become part of a vibrant, international academic environment committed to top-quality research and education.
Departmental Strengths
The Department of Sociology and Human Geography at UiO is recognized for its breadth of topics, methodological rigor, and commitment to addressing pressing societal issues. It boasts active research clusters in:
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Social inequality
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Migration and integration
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Cultural and political participation
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Urban studies
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Population dynamics
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Sustainable transformation
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Work, organizations, and politics
Applicants whose research projects align with these topics are especially encouraged to apply.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be considered, applicants must:
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Hold qualifications equivalent to five years of university education in Norway, including a master’s degree (120 ECTS).
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Have an average grade of A or B in their master’s program.
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Submit a 5–10 page project proposal that demonstrates academic relevance and alignment with departmental strengths.
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Have native or near-native English or Scandinavian language skills. Non-EU/EEA applicants without native English must provide:
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TOEFL: Minimum 550 (PBT) or 80 (iBT)
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IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
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Application Materials
Applicants must submit the following documents in English or a Scandinavian language:
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Motivation Letter
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Project Proposal (5–10 pages) – Clearly articulate topic, theory, methods, timeline, and contribution to the department.
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Curriculum Vitae – With full education and work summary.
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Academic Transcripts and Master’s Degree Diploma
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TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
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Explanation of non-Norwegian grading systems (if relevant)
Documents should be uploaded individually and clearly labeled (e.g., “CV”, “Project Proposal”).
Submit your application through the Jobbnorge recruitment system by clicking “Apply for the position”.
What the University Offers
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A meaningful academic role contributing to knowledge development and public service
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A stimulating intellectual environment and supportive PhD community
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Salary between NOK 551,000–594,000 annually (approx. €48,000–€52,000), depending on experience
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Membership in Norway’s State Pension Fund and other generous welfare schemes
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Up to 1.5 hours of weekly paid exercise time
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Opportunities to spend research periods abroad
Inclusivity at UiO
The University of Oslo is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. UiO encourages applications from candidates with:
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Disabilities
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Immigrant backgrounds
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Employment gaps
Qualified individuals in these categories will be given special consideration during the hiring process.
Selection and Contact
Candidates will be assessed based on academic merit, research relevance, and their capacity to complete the PhD project. Final hiring decisions will be made by the Department Board. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews.
Apply Here
Apply by September 16, 2025, and take your next academic step in one of Europe’s most vibrant research environments.
For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.
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