Job description

TIK Centre for Technology, Innovation and Culture offer a three-year postdoctoral positon to work on the research project “Conflicting Transition Pathways for Deep Decarbonization” (PATHWAYS) funded by the Norwegian Research Council.

The PATHWAYS project starts from the observation that the energy transition has recently entered a new phase where decarbonization must both accelerate in speed and broaden in scope (i.e. beyond the power sector), and that this poses new challenges for policy and research. The postdoc candidate is expected to analyse the role of new complementary technologies that can advance ‘system integration’ of renewable energy (e.g. ICT, storage, etc) and also new types of cross-sectoral interactions as electrification advances in transport, industry and construction.

Qualification requirements

The candidates will have to fulfill the following criteria:

• A PhD degree in a social science discipline, with relevance for the area of innovation studies (innovation studies, economics, management studies, sustainability transitions studies, etc).
• Only candidates that have submitted their PhD before the closing date for this position are eligible.
• Demonstrated experience with relevant theories and methods for studies of innovation and sustainability transitions is an advantage.
• Knowledge of a Scandinavian language is beneficial for performing parts of the empirical work, but it is not required.
• High-level proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
• The ability to perform high impact academic work, demonstrated by previous publications in relevant journals, will be positive.

It is expected that the applicants have reviewed the project description for PATHWAYS, and can describe how their research will contribute to the work and the goals set for the project. Within PATHWAYS, the postdoc candidate is expected to focus on Work Package 2 entitled “Innovation dynamics and feasibility of new technologies”. The project description is available on request (see contact information below).

In assessing applicants, we will emphasize each candidates’ academic background and potential, as well as motivation and match with the project. Interviews will be performed as part of the selection process.

We offer

• Salary NOK 523 200 – 605 500 per annum depending on qualifications
• A pleasant and stimulating working environment
• Attractive welfare benefits, including possibilities for University’s kindergarten and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities.

How to apply

The application must include

• An application letter
• A project description that explains how the applicant would mobilize theoretical perspectives and empirical strategies to carry out the work., The text should link to PATHWAYS project description, and explain how this position will contribute to it, and to the broader literature on sustainability transitions (maximum 5 pages)
• A detailed academic CV listing education, prior employment, academic experience, other relevant experiences and qualifications, detailed list of publications
• Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• Up to three publications that the applicant wishes to have considered in the assessment process.
• A list of reference persons: 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications, the project description, and the quality of the project as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Fellow period at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

• Associate Professor Allan Dahl Andersen
• Adviser Stine Bruland

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