Doctoral Position in Peace and Development Research at University of Gothenburg

Doctoral Position in Peace and Development Research at University of Gothenburg

The University of Gothenburg is offering a fully funded doctoral position in Peace and Development Research. This opportunity focuses on Host-State Responses to Transnational Repression (TNR) and is part of a larger international research project. The position is based at the School of Global Studies and is open to candidates worldwide.

This doctoral program spans four years and includes structured coursework, research activities, and the completion of a dissertation. The successful candidate will receive a monthly salary, access to university resources, and professional development opportunities. The application deadline is August 14, 2026.

About the University of Gothenburg

The University of Gothenburg is one of Scandinavia’s largest and most respected higher education institutions. It hosts around 58,000 students and more than 6,800 employees. The university is known for tackling major societal challenges through interdisciplinary knowledge and global cooperation. It attracts talented individuals from across the globe, fostering a dynamic environment for learning and research.

Peace and Development Research at the University

The Peace and Development Research department at the University of Gothenburg is a recognized international research hub. It comprises approximately 50 researchers who use various theoretical and methodological approaches to study critical global issues. Key research areas include peace and conflict, security studies, human rights, gender and development, migration, global governance, political economy, and international relations. The doctoral candidate will join this active academic community.

Understanding Transnational Repression (TNR)

Transnational repression refers to actions taken by authoritarian governments to target individuals living outside their home countries. These actions can include intimidation, monitoring, silencing, or punishment of dissidents, activists, and political opponents. The doctoral research will investigate how TNR occurs across borders and how democratic host states respond to these threats. This includes examining legal frameworks, public policy, institutional preparedness, and protection measures for diaspora communities.

Potential Research Areas for the Doctoral Project

Applicants are encouraged to propose innovative research ideas related to host-state responses to transnational repression. Possible areas of investigation include:

Awareness Among Government Institutions

Research could explore the level of awareness regarding TNR within various government bodies. This might involve examining institutions such as law enforcement agencies, immigration authorities, cybersecurity departments, and national security organizations. Understanding their knowledge and preparedness is key to developing effective responses.

Government Outreach to Vulnerable Diasporas

This area of research could focus on how governments engage with migrant communities. It may investigate protection initiatives, efforts to build trust, and strategies for enhancing community resilience against external pressures. Effective outreach can help safeguard diaspora populations.

Collaboration Between Government and Civil Society

Research in this area might look at partnerships between public institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It could examine the role of advocacy networks, human rights organizations, and community support structures in addressing TNR. Such collaborations can strengthen protective measures.

Reporting Mechanisms for TNR Incidents

This research could focus on the procedures for reporting TNR incidents. It might explore victim support systems, the accessibility of reporting channels, and how institutions respond to reported cases. Improving these mechanisms is vital for accountability.

Investigation and Prosecution of Perpetrators

Candidates may explore criminal justice responses to TNR. This could involve examining legal frameworks, judicial processes, and the potential for international cooperation in investigating and prosecuting perpetrators. Effective legal action is a deterrent.

Other Relevant Topics

The university welcomes proposals for innovative research ideas that connect transnational repression with democratic governance. Applicants are encouraged to think broadly about the multifaceted nature of this issue.

Comparative Nordic-Baltic Research Framework

The doctoral project will adopt a comparative approach, focusing on two or three countries within the Nordic-Baltic region. Potential case countries include Sweden, Norway, and Estonia. Applicants should justify their choice of countries and explain how a comparative analysis will advance understanding of transnational repression. This approach allows for the identification of common patterns and country-specific differences.

Structure of the Doctoral Programme

The doctoral program is designed as a four-year full-time commitment, leading to a PhD.

Coursework

The first year of the program includes structured doctoral-level coursework. This coursework aims to build strong theoretical, methodological, and analytical skills necessary for advanced research.

Research Activities

The subsequent three years are primarily dedicated to research. This involves data collection, fieldwork, comparative analysis, academic writing, attending conferences, and developing publications.

Dissertation

The program concludes with the completion of an original doctoral dissertation. This dissertation is expected to make a significant scholarly contribution to the field of Peace and Development Research.

Employment and Funding

The selected candidate will be employed by the University of Gothenburg as a doctoral student. This is a fully funded position, including a monthly salary in line with university regulations. The position also provides access to university resources, participation in international research networks, and academic supervision. Professional development and potential teaching experience are also included.

Teaching and Departmental Responsibilities

Doctoral students may be assigned departmental duties, typically up to 20% of their full-time employment. These responsibilities can include teaching undergraduate courses, assisting with graduate instruction, supporting research activities, or handling administrative tasks. Any such duties will extend the total study period accordingly.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet both general and specific eligibility criteria for doctoral admission.

General Eligibility

Candidates should hold a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification. Alternatively, they must have completed at least 240 higher education credits, including 60 credits at the second-cycle level, or possess equivalent international qualifications.

Specific Eligibility

Applicants need to have completed at least 60 credits in one of the following fields: International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, or Global Development Studies. Equivalent academic backgrounds from Sweden or other countries will also be considered.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in English is essential, both written and spoken. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in relevant languages connected to the selected case-study countries. Strong communication skills are vital for conducting international comparative research.

Application Assessment Criteria

Applications will be evaluated through a competitive process. Key assessment criteria include:

Research Proposal

A research proposal of up to 2,000 words is required. It must clearly outline the research problem, purpose, objectives, research questions, theoretical framework, methodology, research design, data sources, timeline, and include Harvard-style references.

Academic Publications and Thesis

The quality of the applicant’s Master’s thesis will be assessed, along with any academic publications, research reports, or other scholarly works submitted.

Curriculum Vitae

The CV should highlight academic achievements, research experience, professional background, language competencies, and relevant technical skills. The Europass format is recommended.

Academic Performance

Grades obtained during undergraduate and postgraduate studies will be taken into account during the evaluation.

Interviews

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in interviews as part of the selection process.

Selection Timeline

The recruitment process is scheduled as follows:

• Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
• Shortlisting Decisions: September 2026
• Final Decisions: October 2026
• Latest Starting Date: January 2027

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Research Proposal (maximum 2,000 words)
2. Master’s Thesis
3. Relevant Academic Publications or Research Outputs
4. Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
5. Academic Diplomas
6. Academic Transcripts
7. Evidence of Additional Qualifications
8. Contact Details of Two References

Please note that recommendation letters will not be considered.

Living and Researching in Sweden

The University of Gothenburg offers support services for international students and researchers moving to Sweden. Sweden is known for its high quality of life, strong research infrastructure, and excellent work-life balance. The university promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for its international academic community.