doctoral studies is to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting independent research in Environmental Social Science

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

Environmental social science (ESS) at the School of Global Studies is a new and growing interdisciplinary subject that explores questions related to environmental change and unsustainable natural resource use in the context of both the global north and south. The overarching aim of ESS is to contribute to an increased understanding of complex environmental problems through the application and development of social science theory and methodology. Currently, the 20 researchers within the ESS group are addressing a broad range of themes, including environmental governance and policy, sustainable development, green growth, environmental justice, traditional ecological knowledge, environmental education, political ecology, environmental conflicts, and marine resource use.

Environmental social science at the School of Global Studies, University of Gothenburg, announces a doctoral position within the research project “Wolf conflicts: Optimizing socio-ecological sustainability in large carnivore management” (financed by the Formas Research Council). The aim of this research project is to study the controversial issue of large carnivore management in Sweden from a social science perspective, and thereby contribute to increased knowledge regarding the socio-economic dimensions of biodiversity. In understanding this policy conflict, the project will explore the issue of social-ecological transformation employing governance theory as well as perspectives from political ecology. The research project uses a mixed method approach for data collection, including document studies, interviews and participant observation. The PhD candidate will carry out a study which explores: (1) decision-making within current large carnivore management; (2) collaborative governance; and (3) opportunities and challenges with environmental collaborative governance.

Job assignments

The purpose of undertaking doctoral studies is to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for conducting independent research within the field of Environmental Social Science. The doctoral studies comprise one year of coursework and three years of research, culminating in the production of a dissertation that makes a significant and original contribution to the research field. The knowledge and skills that are acquired during the studies should be applicable to postdoctoral research or other professional work. The position is salaried and covers four years (full-time equivalent, fixed term), beginning in August 2022. The doctoral candidate may undertake departmental duties corresponding to up to 20% of a full-time position, in which case the duration of the appointment will be extended accordingly. There are no tuition fees.

We are looking for a candidate with an interest in environmental collaborative governance and human-wildlife conflicts, and who wishes to contribute to the growing research area of critical conservation social sciences. Language skills in Swedish, Norwegian or Danish are considered a merit. 

Eligibility

Applicants must fulfil both general and specific entry requirements. An applicant meets the general entry requirements for third-cycle studies if they have obtained (Higher Education Ordinance Ch.7, Sec.39):

1. a degree at the second-cycle level,
2. at least 240 Higher Education Credits, of which at least 60 must be at the second cycle level, or
3. largely equivalent knowledge in other ways in Sweden or abroad.

An applicant meets the specific entry requirements for third-cycle studies if they have obtained (Higher Education Ordinance Ch.7, Sec.40) a degree at the second cycle level in a social and behavioral science discipline, including 30 higher education credits at either first- or second-cycle level that have an environment focus and a thesis at the second cycle with an environment focus. Applicants who have acquired largely equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad will also be considered to meet the specific entry requirements.

Assessment

Applicants will be assessed based on the general and specific eligibility requirements and their estimated ability to benefit from the study programme. The assessment places particular focus on:

1. A proposal/introduction letter (max 2,000 words including references) that formulates some preliminary ideas of how the applicant envisions that his/her PhD work will contribute to the research project in question.
2. A Master’s thesis, academic papers and/or other relevant works. These will be used to assess the applicant’s ability to formulate and delimit research tasks and analyse and present research results.
3. A CV summarizing relevant work experience, language proficiency and other skills.
4. Grades achieved in undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
5. Interviews will be held with shortlisted applicants.

The applicant’s skills, experience, creativity and excellence in research are also assessed on the basis of the points above.

The Head of Department is in charge of all admission decisions at the third-cycle level. This decision cannot be appealed.

For further information regarding the position

Annelie Sjölander-Lindqvist, annelie.sjolander-lindqvist@gu.se, phone 076-6185165

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg: http://www.gu.se/english/about_the_university/job-opportunities/unionrepresentatives

How to apply

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system.

The application must include:

• A proposal/introduction letter of maximum 2,000 words.
• A Master’s thesis and/or any other relevant papers or publications. Submitted texts must be written in Swedish or English. Any translated versions must be accompanied by the original text.
• A CV.
• Copies of diplomas and/or academic transcripts verifying that the general and specific entry requirements stated above have been met. Evidence of other relevant qualifications.

No reference letters will be considered.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that the application is complete. No changes or additions are allowed after the final submission date.

For questions regarding the handling of the application portal or technical problems, please contact rekrytering@gu.se

Closing date: 5 of April 2022

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.Apply