About the opportunity
The Department of Peace and Conflict Research at Uppsala University is seeking to recruit two PhD candidates to join the Democratic Institutions and Violence Network in Europe (DIViNE) Doctoral Network, which is funded by the EU HORIZON MSCA action. DIViNE brings together leading European research environments to explore the complex relationship between democracies and political violence. One position focuses on institutional reform, violence, and democratic consolidation, while the other centers on the micro-foundations of public support for political violence in advanced democracies. Successful candidates will pursue doctoral education, conduct independent research, participate in network training modules, and complete mandatory research stays and non-academic secondments at partner institutions.
Salary and benefits
- Fully funded PhD position with a salary governed by local salary rules (Doktorandstege).
- Participation in the international EU HORIZON MSCA Doctoral Network DIViNE training activities, colloquia, and workshops.
- Integrated research stays and non-academic secondments at partner organizations such as the University of Essex, University of Milan, CIDOB, or the Clingendael Institute.
Who can apply?
- Applicants must meet general or special eligibility requirements for postgraduate studies in peace and conflict research at Uppsala University.
- Under the MSCA Doctoral Networks mobility rule, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Sweden for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to the recruitment date.
- Acceptance into the Department of Peace and Conflict Research PhD program.
Required documents
- Completed application form for doctoral studies
- Short personal letter of 1 to 2 pages
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified transcripts of academic records
- Project plan fitting the theme of the advertised position (3 to 5 pages, excluding reference list)
- Maximum 2 letters of recommendation or a list of 2 references
- 1 to 3 writing samples
- Indication of which position or positions are being applied for
When to apply
- Application deadline is 9 November 2026.
How to apply
- Ensure general and special eligibility requirements for the PhD program are met.
- Prepare all required application documents, including a tailored project plan.
- Submit the application online through Uppsala University's recruitment system by the 9 November 2026 deadline.
Additional information
- The start date is 1 January 2027, or as otherwise agreed.
- Up to 20% of the position may involve administrative and educational responsibilities at the department.
- The position may be subject to security vetting.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-stage researchers with a strong academic background in political science, peace and conflict studies, international relations, or related quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
- Candidates seeking an international doctoral trajectory with built-in European network mobility, research stays, and policy-oriented non-academic secondments.
- Researchers eager to contribute directly to EU-funded collaborative frameworks investigating democratic resilience and political violence.
What should you think carefully about?
- Strict Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions mobility rules apply regarding prior residence in Sweden.
- Candidates must prepare a detailed 3-5 page independent project plan aligned with the specific research themes of the DIViNE network.
- Relocation to Uppsala, Sweden is required for the primary employment location, alongside travel for international network commitments and secondments.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for aspiring researchers aiming to build a rigorous academic career in peace and conflict studies or pursue policy-relevant research within European networks. The structured mobility, secondments, and PhD training environment provide substantial career acceleration for candidates focusing on democratic institutions, political violence, or security studies.
Our take
Strong candidates with a relevant background and adherence to the MSCA mobility rules should seriously consider applying for these competitive, fully funded doctoral positions before the November deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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