Deadline: 31 January 2025

The Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Gothenburg invites applications for a fully-funded doctoral studentship. This opportunity aims to support research focusing on “fundamental democratic values regarding freedom of thought, opinion, expression, and religion.”

The studentship is funded by the Gothenburg Trading Company Fund and will be placed in one of the following third-cycle subjects:

  • Environmental Social Science
  • Journalism, Media & Communication
  • Peace and Development Research
  • Political Science
  • Public Administration
  • Psychology
  • Social Anthropology
  • Social Work
  • Sociology
  • Work Science

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Full-time doctoral studies over four years (240 higher education credits).
  • Completion of an individual study plan, including a thesis project.
  • Active participation in departmental research activities and courses.
  • The program leads to a Doctor of Philosophy in the selected third-cycle subject.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet both general and specific entry requirements:
General Requirements (as per the Higher Education Ordinance):

  1. Completion of a second-cycle degree, OR
  2. Completion of 240 higher education credits (minimum 60 at second-cycle level), OR
  3. Equivalent qualifications obtained in Sweden or abroad.

Specific Requirements: Refer to the general syllabus for the relevant third-cycle subject on the Faculty of Social Sciences website.

Evaluation Criteria

Selection is based on the applicant’s potential to benefit from the doctoral program, assessed by:

  1. Research Outline:
    • Clear research problem and justification.
    • Discussion of theories, methods, and materials.
    • Ethical reflections on the proposed project.
    • Alignment with the theme of “fundamental democratic values.”
  2. Academic Merit: Proven ability to communicate in English (oral and written).
  3. Supervision Resources: Departmental capacity in the chosen research area.

Application Requirements

The application must include the following documents:

  1. Personal Letter: Statement of interest and the subject area for the degree (max. 1 page).
  2. CV: Curriculum vitae.
  3. Research Outline: A detailed description of the proposed project (max. 4 pages).
  4. Academic Records: Certified copies of diplomas, transcripts, and other relevant qualifications.
  5. Publications: Copies of theses or other academic works.

Employment Details

  • Duration: Four years (full-time).
  • Start Date: Autumn semester 2025.
  • Location: One of the seven departments within the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Application Process

Submit your application through the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal. Ensure all materials are complete and submitted by the deadline: 31 January 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 31 January 2025
  • Start Date: Autumn semester 2025

For further information and for applications please see the University of Gothenburg’s website:

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