Fully Funded PhD Fellowship in Development Studies at Oslo Metropolitan University

Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet), Norway’s third-largest and most urban university, is now accepting applications for a fully funded PhD Fellowship in Development Studies, starting 1 September 2026. This prestigious opportunity offers emerging scholars a chance to engage in advanced research addressing global issues such as inequality, sustainability, education, gender, and power relations, with a strong focus on the Global South.

The position is hosted at the Department of International Studies and Interpreting (IST) within the Faculty of Education and International Studies (LUI). This dynamic and internationally oriented department is home to leading academics in development, education, and social policy, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking.

Applications close on 1 December 2025, and the position offers an annual salary of NOK 550,800, along with pension benefits and access to extensive professional and academic development opportunities.

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About the Fellowship

The selected PhD Fellow will join the Development, Power, and Inequality research group—an academic community exploring themes of global resource distribution, social justice, environmental sustainability, and the intersections of power and development. The position offers both intellectual freedom and structured support through OsloMet’s PhD Programme in Educational Sciences for Teacher Education.

The fellowship runs for three years, with the possibility of extending up to four years if teaching or administrative duties are included. Fellows are also encouraged to apply for scholarships supporting international research stays.

OsloMet emphasizes social relevance, ethical awareness, and critical reflection in its research, making this an excellent opportunity for scholars committed to advancing equitable and sustainable global development.

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Key Research Areas

The PhD project must align with the department’s thematic focus, including but not limited to:

• Development, environment, and sustainability

• The role of education in social transformation

• Global health, gender, and inequality

• Power relations and governance in the Global South

• Cultural, political, and social dimensions of global change

Applicants are expected to propose a research project that demonstrates originality, academic rigor, and clear relevance to global development issues.

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Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a Master’s degree (120 ECTS credits) in Development Studies or a related discipline.

• Have achieved a grade of B or higher on their Master’s thesis or equivalent strong academic results.

• Demonstrate strong research and analytical skills, preferably supported by previous academic or professional experience.

• Have excellent written and oral communication skills in English or a Scandinavian language.

Additional desirable qualifications include:

• Fieldwork experience and regional knowledge, especially relating to the Global South.

• Familiarity with interdisciplinary research and participatory approaches.

• A demonstrated capacity for independent work and long-term academic engagement.

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Application Components

Applicants must submit the following documents through OsloMet’s electronic recruitment system by 1 December 2025:

1. Application letter and CV.

2. Copies of diplomas, transcripts, and certificates (translated into English if necessary).

3. Master’s thesis or other relevant academic publications.

4. Research proposal (maximum 10 pages) outlining research questions, theoretical framework, methodology, relevance, and a timeline.

5. Contact information for two academic referees.

A digital writing seminar for applicants will be held on 22 October 2025, providing guidance on crafting a strong proposal (to be conducted in Norwegian).

For more information click HERE.

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Why Apply to OsloMet?

OsloMet provides a vibrant, inclusive academic environment in the heart of Oslo, with a commitment to sustainability, equity, and excellence. Fellows enjoy access to:

• A creative and interdisciplinary research community.

• International collaboration and fieldwork opportunities.

• Comprehensive training and mentorship through the PhD program.

• Access to cultural and professional networks within one of Europe’s most forward-thinking cities.

• Competitive salary and pension schemes.

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Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted electronically by 1 December 2025 (23:59 CET).
For inquiries, contact Associate Professor Hege Roaldset (hegeroal@oslomet.no) or Acting Head of Studies Bjørn Harald Hegreberg Garborg (garbor@oslomet.no).

This PhD fellowship is an outstanding opportunity for aspiring researchers eager to contribute to impactful development research in a global academic setting.

Stay HERE for more opportunities.