UiB - Knowledge that shapes society

Through robust and close interaction with the world around us – globally, nationally and locally – we shall be instrumental in building a society based on knowledge, skills and attitudes.

Do you want to take part in shaping the future?

Research fellow in Political Science or Economics (Quantitative Methods)

The Department of Government at the University of Bergen is seeking to appoint a Research Fellow. This temporary full-time position is available for two years and is classified within the university system as "researcher."  This position offers an excellent opportunity for a young scholar to contribute to a growing research literature on the legacies of war, conflict, and insecurity on societal, political, and economic outcomes (www.wareffects.eu). 

We seek a candidate with advanced quantitative methods skills and a keen interest in peace and conflict research, international politics, and/or post-conflict development. There are no teaching obligations, the successful candidate can focus fully on research.

In close collaboration with Associate Prof. Carlo Koos, you will contribute to the design, planning, and implementation of surveys in conflict-affected countries; collect, assemble, and analyse existing micro-level data sources; and participate in writing research articles.

The preferred starting date is November 2024, but negotiable.

Qualifications and personal qualities:

Required qualifications

• You must hold a Doctorate/PhD in political science, economics, or a related discipline, which must be defended by the starting date
• The position is open for both young and experienced scholars
• Your research should focus on peace and conflict, international relations, post-conflict politics, or related topics
• You should have an excellent publication record in highly ranked international journals, or you should have demonstrated proof of highly promising working papers
• You must have documented proof of advanced quantitative methods skills in your written work (articles, chapters), particularly in methods of causal inference as well as the use of microlevel data (e.g., subnational, household, individual)
• You need to possess clear and effective writing skills, a pro-active and problem-solving attitude, and maintain an ethical and collegial collaboration approach
• You must have an excellent command of English, both written and spoken
• The position is based in Bergen and the successful candidate is expected to live and work here.

Desired qualifications

• Experience in the use of GIS data and machine learning
• Experience in field research and/or a willingness to conduct field research is highly desirable
• Fluency in French or Spanish 

We can offer:

• A position designed to develop your profile as a scholar 
• An excellent department that hosts two other ongoing ERC-funded projects
• Salary NOK 624500 – 667700 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Researcher (code 1109).
• Bergen is the second largest city in Norway with access to spectacular nature
• Access to university welfare benefits (including cabins, cultural events etc.)
• Enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

Your application must include:

• Cover Letter (maximum 2 pages): This should include a detailed statement of motivation explaining why you are interested in this position and how your background and skills align with it.
• Quantitative methods statement (max. 1,000 words): This statement should include the following: i) description of the quantitative methods used in your previous research, including specific examples and references as evidence; ii) a discussion of which quantitative methods you wish to acquire or develop further in the context of this position and the associated project; iii) an explanation of the purpose and potential applications of these methods within the project’s scope.
• Curriculum Vitae: Education, positions held, research and pedagogical experience, administrative experience, training in quantitative methods, and other qualifying activities. Please include any career breaks, such as parental leave, as these will be considered when evaluating your academic output.
• Complete List of Publications: This can be included as part of your CV.
• Educational Diplomas: Attach copies and transcripts (incl. grades) documenting the award of your main degrees (PhD, MA). Highlight courses in quantitative methods.
• Sample of Academic Work: Submit a copy of what you consider to be your best academic work in English to date. If this is a co-authored paper or publication, you must also provide a declaration of co-authorship. This declaration should detail your individual contribution and be signed by your co-author(s).
• PhD Dissertation:
  • If you already defended your PhD dissertation, include your PhD diploma including grades and a copy of your PhD
  • If you have not yet defended but submitted your PhD dissertation, include a confirmation of submission, a copy of the submitted version, and a written assessment of your first supervisor
  • If your PhD dissertation has not yet been submitted, include the latest version, a written assessment (including the planned submission and defense date) of your first supervisor 
• References: Provide the names and contact details of three references, one of whom should normally be your main PhD supervisor. Include each reference's name, relationship to you, email, and phone number. Reference letters are not required at this stage.

We specifically encourage qualified candidates from countries of the Global South to apply.

The application and appendices with certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language must be uploaded at Jobbnorge. 

The closing date is 23 August 2024. The application has to be marked with 24/7702.

Applications sent by e-mail will not be evaluated.

General information:

Detailed information about the position can be obtained by contacting Associate Professor Carlo Koos, PI of the project is carlo.koos@uib.no 

Practical questions about the application process and formalities should be directed to HR adviser Gudrun Horvei at Gudrun.horvei@uib.no

Diversity is a strength that enables us to solve our tasks even better. UiB therefore needs qualified employees regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, worldview, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and age.

The University of Bergen applies the principle of public access to information when recruiting staff for academic positions.

We encourage applicants with disabilities, immigrant backgrounds, or gaps in their CV to apply. By indicating such circumstances in your application, you may receive favourable consideration. We ensure that at least one qualified applicant from each of these groups is invited for an interview as part of our commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity.For further information about the recruitment process, click here.

About The University of Bergen

The University of Bergen is a renowned educational and research institution, organised into seven faculties and approximately 54 institutes and academic centres. Campus is located in the centre of Bergen with university areas at Nygårdshøyden, Haukeland, Marineholmen, Møllendalsveien and Årstad. 

There are seven departments at Faculty of Social Sciences. Read more about the faculty and departments.