Are you passionate about how images shape our understanding of human rights and justice? The University of Copenhagen offers a fully funded PhD position on images and justice starting in 2026. This three-year scholarship falls under the ERC-funded project “Before the Image – The Political Ontology of Images for Legal and Social Justice.” It invites researchers to study the systems behind images of violence and war crimes.
About the “Before the Image” Project
The project looks at how images of violence, war crimes, and human rights abuses come to be. It goes beyond the photo itself to explore camera tools, training in visual skills, and open-source checks. Led by Nina Grønlykke Mollerup at the Department of Cross-Cultural and Regional Studies, the team works with the group Pax Memoria.
This effort received funding from the European Research Council. It asks key questions about truth and proof in images, especially for courts and social justice. The PhD student will join an interdisciplinary team to make real-world impacts.
Research Focus of the PhD Position
Your work will center on how people read images of violence and rights abuses. You will study visual skills, memory, training, and ideas of truth. Tasks include fieldwork at trainings for open-source investigations.
You will interview trainers and participants on image checks like geolocation and chronolocation. The role also covers how experts and regular people view tough visual proof. A big part is building an interactive exhibit with eye-tracking tech, visitor feedback, and tests on image views.
This mix of field study, talks, and public displays offers hands-on research experience.
Benefits of Applying
This position stands out for its support and reach.
Full Funding and Salary
You get a monthly salary of about DKK 31,200, or around EUR 4,100. That comes with an 18.07% pension add-on. Funds cover travel for field work and stays abroad.
Prestigious Setting
The University of Copenhagen ranks high in Europe. It belongs to the International Alliance of Research Universities. You join a welcoming space for global scholars.
Meaningful Work
Your research touches human rights records, digital probes, ethics, and media skills. It aids talks on justice worldwide. The team values diverse views and family support for moves.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility
You need a Master’s degree or equal in fields like anthropology, sociology, psychology, or human rights. Show skills in ethnographic methods and interviews. Interest in visual culture, justice, and careful ethics helps.
Strong English speaking and writing are musts. Extra languages or work with rights groups boost your case.
What to Submit in Your Application
Prepare these items:
- A one-page personal statement
- A one-page CV
- School transcripts and degrees
- A 3-5 page project outline that fits the “Before the Image” goals
- Any needed translations of papers
Make your project idea fresh but tied to the main themes.
Deadline and Application Steps
Submit by May 27, 2026, at 23:59 CEST. Interviews happen June 22 or 24, 2026, with online options.
Apply online via the University of Copenhagen job portal. Check the full details at their site. Start your application today to join this vital research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ‘Before the Image’ project about?
The project studies how images of violence, war crimes, and human rights abuses are created and verified. It explores tools like cameras, visual training, and open-source checks beyond just the photos.
What research tasks will the PhD student do?
You will study how people interpret images of violence through fieldwork, interviews on geolocation and chronolocation, and building an interactive exhibit with eye-tracking technology.
What are the eligibility requirements?
You need a Master’s degree in fields like anthropology, sociology, or human rights, plus skills in ethnographic methods, interviews, and strong English. Experience in visual culture or rights work is a plus.
What is the application deadline and salary?
Submit by May 27, 2026, at 23:59 CEST via the university job portal. The monthly salary is about DKK 31,200 (EUR 4,100) plus pension and travel funds.
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