NMBU PhD Position within Quaternary Geology – Fully Funded Scholarship (2026)

Scholarship Description

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within Quaternary Geology. This exciting research opportunity focuses on understanding glacial and Quaternary processes, landscape evolution, sedimentology, stratigraphy, and climate history. The successful candidate will join a world-class research community at Norway's leading life sciences university, contributing to cutting-edge research on past environmental changes and their implications for future landscapes.

Quaternary Geology is the study of geological processes and environmental changes that occurred during the Quaternary Period (the last 2.6 million years), including multiple glacial-interglacial cycles. This research is crucial for understanding landscape evolution, natural hazards, groundwater resources, and climate change impacts. The PhD project will involve field-based investigations, laboratory analyses, and spatial data interpretation to reconstruct Quaternary environments.

NMBU is located in Ås, Norway, approximately 30 kilometres south of Oslo. The university is internationally recognised for its research in environmental sciences, geosciences, and sustainable development. Norway offers a high quality of life, stunning natural landscapes (fjords, mountains, glaciers), and excellent working conditions for researchers.

Scholarship Location

The PhD position is based at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) in Ås, Norway. Ås is a charming university town with a rich academic tradition, located about 30 km south of Oslo with excellent public transport connections to the capital. Fieldwork may be conducted across various Quaternary geological sites in Norway and potentially other Nordic regions.

Application Deadline

The position is open until filled, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Host Institution

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) – a leading international university specialising in environmental sciences, geosciences, natural resource management, and sustainable development. NMBU has strong expertise in Quaternary Geology, glacial processes, sedimentology, and landscape evolution, with access to excellent laboratory facilities and field sites across Norway.

Level and Field of Study

Level: PhD (Doctoral) – typically 3 years (with possible extension to 4 years including teaching or other duties).

Field: Quaternary Geology. Specific research areas may include:

• Glacial geomorphology and sedimentology
• Quaternary stratigraphy and chronology
• Landscape evolution in deglaciated terrains
• Palaeoenvironmental reconstruction using sediment cores (lakes, bogs)
• Glacial history and ice-sheet dynamics
• Periglacial and paraglacial processes
• Geohazards related to Quaternary deposits (landslides, quick clays)
• Application of GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis in Quaternary mapping
• Groundwater resources in Quaternary aquifers

Target Group

The scholarship is open to highly motivated candidates from all countries with a strong academic background in Quaternary geology, glacial geology, sedimentology, physical geography, geomorphology, or a related Earth science field. NMBU welcomes international applicants and provides a supportive, multicultural research environment.

Scholarship Duration & Amount

Duration: 3 years (standard PhD period in Norway), with the possibility of a 4th year for teaching or other departmental duties (25% workload).

Funding: This is a fully funded PhD position with a competitive salary according to the Norwegian state salary scale.

Estimated annual salary: Approximately NOK 532,000 – 575,000 (approx. €50,000 – 54,000 / USD $52,000 – 56,000) depending on qualifications and seniority.

Benefits include:

• Full social security and pension benefits (membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund)
• Paid holiday leave (5 weeks of annual vacation)
• Parental leave and family benefits under Norwegian welfare system
• Access to university housing at reduced rates
• Office space, computer equipment, GIS software, and laboratory facilities
• Funding for conference travel, fieldwork, and analytical costs
• Excellent work-life balance and a supportive research environment

Scholarship Eligibility

Required qualifications:

• A Master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in Quaternary geology, glacial geology, sedimentology, physical geography, geomorphology, Earth sciences, or a closely related field.
• Strong academic record (typically a B average or higher in the Master's degree).
• Documented knowledge of Quaternary Geology, glacial processes, and/or sedimentology.
• Experience with field-based geological investigations and data collection.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) – IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90 (or equivalent).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Valid driver's licence (for fieldwork in remote locations) is an advantage.

Desirable skills (not mandatory):

• Experience with GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and spatial data analysis.
• Experience with laboratory analyses (sedimentology, grain size analysis, geochemistry, OSL or radiocarbon dating).
• Knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (helpful for fieldwork and collaboration).
• Experience with geophysical methods (GPR, resistivity) for subsurface investigation.

Application Procedure

1. Review the job advertisement – Visit the Jobbnorge portal (job ID 302880) or the NMBU website for the official announcement and any updates.
2. Prepare application documents – Gather the following materials in PDF format:
   • Cover letter (1–2 pages) – explaining your motivation for applying, your research interests in Quaternary Geology, and how your background aligns with the position.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – including education, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), technical skills (GIS, lab methods, field methods), and language proficiency.
   • Copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's degrees).
   • Master's thesis (full text or summary) – if available, provide a copy or a detailed summary (2–3 pages).
   • English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
   • Contact information for 2–3 academic referees (letters may be requested later).
   • List of publications or conference presentations (if applicable).
3. Submit your application – Applications must be submitted through the official Jobbnorge portal (job ID 302880) or via the NMBU application system. Do not send applications via email unless specified.
4. Application review – NMBU reviews applications on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews (online or in-person).
5. Interviews – Selected candidates will be invited for an interview to discuss their research background, technical skills, field experience, and motivation.
6. Offer and acceptance – The successful candidate receives a formal offer of employment as a PhD Research Fellow.
7. Relocation and start – NMBU provides support for international candidates with visa applications, housing, and relocation to Norway.

Important notes: The position is open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. NMBU is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. Norwegian work visa regulations apply for non-EU/EEA candidates.

Official Website & Application Link

NMBU PhD Position – Official Jobbnorge Posting (ID: 302880)

NMBU Main Website: https://www.nmbu.no/en

For inquiries: Contact information for the supervising professor is available on the Jobbnorge job posting page.