Are you interested in global health research that makes a real difference? The University of Oslo has opened applications for a fully funded PhD position on African migrant health as part of the HEMI project. This role lets you study how migration affects health among African sexual and gender minority men. It’s a three-year position at the Institute of Health and Society in Norway.
About the HEMI Project
The HEMI project, or Health and Migration, looks at African male migrants across several countries. It receives funding from the Research Council of Norway and works with universities in Africa and Europe, plus civil society groups. The project links to the Africa-Europe Cluster of Research Excellence in Health, Gender and Sexualities, which includes eight universities.
Key areas include migration paths from home countries to new places, health issues migrants face, ways they cope, access to care, and stories of risk and strength. Four PhD students will work on this, covering Norway, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Research Focus and Methodology
Your main work will center on African migrants in Norway. You will explore their health, well-being, and daily lives. Methods include in-depth interviews, group talks, watching daily activities, and working with migrant groups.
You will team up with community organizations, health workers, and service providers. The approach values input from migrants themselves. You will also review Norway’s policies on migrant health. Fieldwork happens in Norway with chances for wider teamwork.
Academic Environment
The job sits at the Institute of Health and Society, in the Section for Transdisciplinary Research for Sustainable Health. This group mixes skills from medicine, health sciences, and social sciences. You get a worldwide view with experts from many fields.
Expect workshops, guidance sessions, and shared publications across countries. This builds your network and skills.
Key Responsibilities
You will help shape the Norway study, from methods to ethics approvals. Collect data through fieldwork and analyze it to build new ideas. Aim to write about three papers for your thesis.
Join team publications and present at conferences or policy events. Attend project meetings and workshops to stay connected.
Eligibility Criteria
Required Qualifications
You need a master’s degree in public health, sociology, social anthropology, gender studies, or similar. A medical background with social science interest works too. Your grades should average B or better, though C cases get reviewed.
Show strong English skills in writing and speaking. Prove you can handle research alone and explain tough topics clearly.
Desired Qualifications
Extra points for experience in migration studies, work with sexual and gender minorities, or qualitative methods. Knowledge of Norway’s health system, Norwegian language, or cross-cultural work helps.
Personal Attributes
Look for drive to do meaningful research. Work well alone or in groups. Share updates openly and stay organized. Bring curiosity and a positive attitude.
What the University Offers
Enjoy a top research setting with a focus on society. Build ties across Africa and Europe. Salary starts at NOK 550,800 to 610,000 per year, plus pension, insurance, and loan benefits.
Application Requirements
Send a two-page CV, transcripts, three references, a writing sample of 4,000 to 10,000 words, and a three-page statement on your motivation, skills, interests, and goals. Note any AI use in your application.
Apply via the official system at the University of Oslo’s recruitment page.
The university welcomes diverse applicants, including those with disabilities or immigrant backgrounds. Shortlisted people get interviews. Names may go public per Norwegian rules unless you request privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HEMI project about?
The HEMI project studies health and migration among African male migrants in countries like Norway, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It focuses on migration paths, health challenges, coping strategies, and access to care.
What qualifications are required for the PhD position?
You need a master’s degree in public health, sociology, social anthropology, gender studies, or a related field with an average grade of B or better. Strong English skills in writing and speaking are also required.
What research methods will be used?
The methods include in-depth interviews, group discussions, participant observation of daily activities, and collaboration with migrant communities and service providers.
How can I apply for this position?
Submit a two-page CV, transcripts, three references, a writing sample of 4,000-10,000 words, and a three-page motivation statement via the University of Oslo’s recruitment page.