About the opportunity
The Department of Science Education at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a three-year fully-funded PhD position in geoscience education research, commencing on April 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position forms part of the research work package ‘Disciplinary Writing Practices in the AI Era: Enhancing Learning in the Geosciences’ at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for University Science Education (NNF-USE), led by Professor Kristine Harper. The project explores how university students and faculty experience disciplinary writing, how generative AI technologies disrupt writing practices, and how writing can be better integrated as a learning tool in university geology education. Candidates have considerable freedom to shape the project using diverse methodologies such as literature reviews, surveys, classroom observations, and interviews, ensuring relevance within a Danish higher education context.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment as a PhD fellow for a maximum of 3 years
- Salary and terms of employment in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State (AC)
- Coverage by the Protocol on Job Structure
- Supportive academic environment with supervision from leading researchers
- Opportunities to participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
- Six weeks of annual vacation and publicly supported social benefits in Denmark
Who can apply?
- Hold a master’s degree equivalent to a Danish master's degree (180 ECTS BSc + 120 ECTS MSc) by April 1, 2027
- Possess a degree in an appropriate geoscience discipline (e.g., geology, meteorology, oceanography, physical geography) or in geoscience education, with a bachelor's degree in an appropriate geoscience discipline
- Comfortable working in research groups with an interest in collaborative work
- Strong interest in pursuing geoscience education research
- Excellent written and oral English language skills
Required documents
- Letter of application including motivation for applying for the specific PhD project
- Proposal for a PhD project related to the research area, not exceeding six pages
- Curriculum vitae including information about education, experience, language skills, and other relevant skills
- Original diplomas for completed Bachelor's and Master's education and transcripts of records in the original language, with an authorized English translation if issued in a language other than English or Danish
- Publication list (if applicable)
When to apply
- Application deadline is November 29, 2026, at 23:59 GMT+1
- Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in January 2027
- Employment is scheduled to commence on April 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents including the project proposal and academic transcripts
- Submit your application and attachments electronically by clicking the application link on the official job portal before the deadline
Additional information
- The PhD position is conditional upon successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen.
- Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities corresponding to approximately half a full-time equivalent are required.
- Completion of PhD courses corresponding to approximately 30 ECTS is required.
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…
- You have a strong academic background in geosciences combined with a genuine interest in pedagogy, learning theories, and educational research.
- You are eager to explore cutting-edge intersections between modern technology, generative AI, and traditional academic writing practices.
- You thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary research environments and are comfortable conducting qualitative or mixed-methods studies involving students and faculty.
What should you think carefully about?
- You must be prepared to write a comprehensive six-page project proposal as part of your application package.
- The project requires balancing independent academic research with mandatory teaching duties, coursework, and a potential research stay abroad.
- Relocation to Copenhagen, Denmark is required for the duration of the three-year appointment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship provides an exceptional platform for researchers aiming to bridge disciplinary science and higher education pedagogy. Whether you envision a long-term academic career in science education research or wish to develop high-level expertise in qualitative methodologies, curriculum design, and educational technology integration, this structured PhD program offers robust institutional backing and international exposure.
Our take
This opportunity is highly suitable for ambitious master's graduates in geoscience or education disciplines who want to shape the future of university-level science teaching. Candidates who prefer purely laboratory-based technical geoscience research without pedagogical components may find this education-focused role less aligned with their interests.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
