University of Oslo Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Global Life-Course Criminology

Are you an early-career researcher interested in crime patterns around the world? The University of Oslo Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Global Life-Course Criminology offers a chance to join a major project. This fully funded role lets you study criminal paths across countries with top experts.

About the Fellowship

The University of Oslo runs this postdoctoral research fellowship through its Department of Criminology and Sociology of Law. You will work with Professor Sveinung Sandberg on the CRIMLIFE project, funded by the European Research Council. The position lasts three years for research only or four years with 25 percent teaching and admin duties. It starts in spring 2026 in Oslo, Norway. Pay ranges from NOK 595,000 to 680,000 per year based on your experience.

About the CRIMLIFE Project

CRIMLIFE looks at how life events and social settings affect crime over time in different places. It compares data from six countries: Norway, Czech Republic, Türkiye, Nigeria, India, and Colombia. The study uses a mix of methods, including 900 life-story interviews with 300 people and large surveys. This work fills gaps in criminology by including views from the Global South, not just Western areas. Key topics include the roles of state, family, jobs, and culture in crime and stopping crime.

Research Responsibilities

In this role, you will do global comparative qualitative research in several countries. You will write and publish articles, code and analyze data, and help manage the project. Tasks also cover reports, ethical approvals, data plans, and using TSD for sensitive data. You will join seminars, workshops, and team efforts to share findings worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria

You need a PhD or equal degree in criminology, sociology, psychology, political science, or a related field. Submit your thesis by the deadline and get it approved before starting. Strong English skills in writing and speaking are required, plus knowledge of research ethics. Preferred skills include life-history interviews, narrative analysis, life-course criminology, and experience in the project countries. Interest in comparative qualitative work helps too.

Personal Skills

The best candidates work well on their own and with others. They communicate clearly, show drive in international teams, and stay organized. You should feel motivated to join this multidisciplinary group.

Benefits

The University of Oslo provides a lively academic setting with career growth options. You gain access to a worldwide research network. Enjoy up to 1.5 hours of exercise each week during work time, a good pension, and welfare perks. If needed, get help to build teaching skills.

Why Apply?

This fellowship suits those who want high-impact work on global crime studies. You will gain fieldwork abroad, team up with leading criminology experts, and help shape new research in the field.

Application Requirements

Submit a cover letter on your fit and interest. Include a 4-7 page project proposal with goals, methods, ethics, and links to CRIMLIFE. Add your CV, transcripts, up to three publications, and two referee contacts. Optionally, include your doctoral assessment. Use English or a Scandinavian language for all files. Apply online through the provided link.

Application Deadline

The deadline is April 30, 2026. The University of Oslo is Norway’s top-ranked school with over 26,500 students. Its criminology department leads in research and teaching.

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