University of Oslo Postdoc Fellowship 2026: Global 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 if you include 25% 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.
This fellowship suits those who want to build skills in global research. You get to travel and collect data from different places. The university supports a welcoming work setting with chances to grow your career.
Details on the CRIMLIFE Project
CRIMLIFE looks at how life events shape crime and how people stop offending. It uses life histories and life-course methods to compare regions. The project fills gaps in criminology by including views from outside Western countries.
Key areas include the role of state, family, jobs, and culture in crime. It covers six countries: Norway, Czech Republic, Türkiye, Nigeria, India, and Colombia. Methods mix 300 participants, 900 life-story interviews, and large surveys. This approach gives a full picture of crime worldwide.
Your Research Tasks
As a fellow, you will lead global comparative qualitative research in several countries. You need to write and publish articles in academic journals. Help code, analyze, and organize data from interviews and surveys.
You will manage parts of the project, like reports and ethical approvals. Use TSD services for sensitive data. Join international teamwork, seminars, and workshops to share findings.
These duties build your skills in fieldwork and teamwork. Expect travel to project sites for data collection.
Who Can Apply: Required Qualifications
You need a PhD or equal in criminology, sociology, psychology, political science, or a related social science field. Submit your thesis by the deadline and get it approved before starting. Speak and write English well. Know research ethics rules.
Preferred Skills and Experience
The best candidates have worked with life-history interviews or narrative analysis. Background in life-course criminology helps. Know any project country or region. Experience in comparative qualitative research is a plus.
Personal Qualities Needed
Show you can research on your own. Have good skills in working with others and communicating ideas. Bring energy to an international team. Stay organized and plan your work well.
What You Gain from the Fellowship
The University of Oslo provides a lively academic space. You join a worldwide network of scholars. Get up to 1.5 hours of exercise each week during work time. Enjoy a solid pension and welfare perks. If you teach, build those skills with support.
This role helps you gain fieldwork abroad and work with leaders in the field. It shapes new ideas in crime studies.
How to Submit Your Application
Send a cover letter on your fit for the role. Include a 4-7 page project proposal with goals, methods, ethics, and links to CRIMLIFE. Add your CV, transcripts, certificates, up to three publications, and two referee contacts. Optional: doctoral assessment. Use English or a Scandinavian language for all files.
Apply online through the Jobbnorge portal.
Key Dates
The deadline is April 30, 2026. Start preparing now to meet it.
The University of Oslo Background
UiO is Norway’s top university with over 26,500 students and 7,200 staff. Its Department of Criminology and Sociology of Law leads in research and teaching. Join a place known for strong academic work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CRIMLIFE project about?
CRIMLIFE studies how life events shape crime patterns and desistance across countries like Norway, Türkiye, Nigeria, India, Colombia, and the Czech Republic using interviews and surveys.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
You need a PhD in criminology, sociology, or a related field, strong English skills, and knowledge of research ethics.
How long is the fellowship and what is the pay?
It lasts three years for research or four years with teaching duties, with pay from NOK 595,000 to 680,000 per year based on experience.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Apply online via Jobbnorge by April 30, 2026, with a cover letter, project proposal, CV, publications, and references.