NMBU PhD Scholarship within Hydrogeology of Fractured Bedrock (2026) – Fully Funded

Scholarship Description

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship within Hydrogeology of Fractured Bedrock. This exciting research opportunity focuses on understanding groundwater flow, contaminant transport, and sustainable water resource management in fractured bedrock aquifers. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, working on cutting-edge problems in hydrogeology with direct implications for water security, geothermal energy, and environmental protection.

NMBU is located in Ås, Norway, approximately 30 kilometres south of Oslo. The university is internationally recognised for its research in environmental sciences, water resources, and sustainable development. Norway offers a high quality of life, stunning natural landscapes, 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 located about 30 km south of Oslo, with excellent public transport connections to the capital. The region offers beautiful fjords, forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

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, sustainable development, natural resource management, and life sciences. NMBU is consistently ranked among the world's top universities for its research impact and commitment to addressing global challenges.

Level and Field of Study

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

Field: Hydrogeology of fractured bedrock. Specific research areas may include:

• Groundwater flow and transport processes in fractured crystalline rocks
• Characterisation of fracture networks using geophysical methods
• Numerical modelling of flow and contaminant transport in fractured media
• Hydrogeological controls on geothermal energy systems
• Groundwater-surface water interactions in fractured bedrock settings
• Field investigations using pumping tests, tracer tests, and borehole logging
• Applications for sustainable water supply and environmental remediation

Target Group

The scholarship is open to highly motivated candidates from all countries with a strong academic background in hydrogeology, geology, civil engineering, environmental engineering, geophysics, or a related 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 (including 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, and research facilities
• Funding for conference travel and fieldwork
• Excellent work-life balance and a supportive research environment

Scholarship Eligibility

Required qualifications:

• A Master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in hydrogeology, geology, civil engineering, environmental engineering, geophysics, or a closely related field.
• Strong academic record (typically a B average or higher in the Master's degree).
• Documented knowledge of hydrogeology, groundwater flow, and/or fractured rock systems.
• Experience with numerical modelling (e.g., MODFLOW, FEFLOW, COMSOL, or similar) is highly desirable.
• Fieldwork experience (borehole logging, pumping tests, tracer tests) is an advantage.
• 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.

Desirable skills (not mandatory):

• Knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (helpful for fieldwork and collaboration).
• Experience with geophysical methods (resistivity, seismic, GPR) for subsurface characterisation.
• Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, R, or similar) for data analysis and modelling.
• GIS proficiency for spatial data analysis.

Application Procedure

1. Review the job advertisement – Visit the Jobbnorge portal (job ID 299398) 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 fractured bedrock hydrogeology, and how your background aligns with the position.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – including education, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), technical skills, 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 299398) 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, 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 Scholarship – Official Jobbnorge Posting

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

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