University of Gothenburg Doctoral Position in Peace and Development Research 2026

The University of Gothenburg is offering a fully funded doctoral student position in Peace and Development Research. This opportunity focuses on the critical and growing issue of host-state responses to transnational repression. It is an excellent chance for aspiring researchers to contribute to important global studies.

The position is part of a larger international project. This project examines how transnational repression occurs and how democratic host states react to these threats. The research will explore legal frameworks, public policy, and the preparedness of institutions. It will also look at protection mechanisms for diaspora communities.

About the University of Gothenburg

The University of Gothenburg is one of Scandinavia’s largest and most respected universities. It has about 58,000 students and over 6,800 employees. The university is known for tackling major societal challenges through interdisciplinary knowledge and international cooperation. It attracts talented individuals from all over the world, creating a dynamic environment for learning and research.

Peace and Development Research at Gothenburg

The Peace and Development Research department at the University of Gothenburg is a leading interdisciplinary research center. Around 50 researchers work here, using various theories and methods to study global challenges. Their research areas include peace and conflict, security studies, human rights, gender and development, migration, global governance, and political economy. The doctoral candidate will join this active academic community.

Understanding Transnational Repression

Transnational repression (TNR) is when authoritarian governments try to control, silence, or harm their citizens living abroad. This can include intimidation, monitoring, or undermining activists and opponents. The doctoral research will investigate how TNR happens across borders and how democratic host states respond.

Potential Research Areas

Applicants are encouraged to propose research ideas related to host-state responses to TNR. Some possible areas include:

• Awareness Among Government Institutions: This could involve studying how aware law enforcement, immigration, and cybersecurity agencies are of TNR.
• Government Outreach to Vulnerable Diasporas: Research might explore how governments engage with migrant communities to build trust and protect them.
• Collaboration Between Government and Civil Society: This area could focus on partnerships between public bodies and non-governmental organizations that support human rights.
• Reporting Mechanisms for TNR Incidents: Candidates might examine how people can report TNR incidents and how institutions respond.
• Investigation and Prosecution of Perpetrators: This could involve looking at how the justice system handles TNR cases and international cooperation.

Comparative Nordic-Baltic Research Framework

The project will compare responses in two or three countries from the Nordic-Baltic region, such as Sweden, Norway, or Estonia. Applicants should explain why they chose specific countries and how this comparison will add to understanding TNR.

Doctoral Programme Structure

The doctoral program lasts four years and leads to a PhD. The first year involves coursework to build skills in theory, methods, and analysis. The following three years are dedicated to research, including data collection, fieldwork, analysis, writing, and presenting findings at conferences. The program concludes with a doctoral dissertation.

Employment and Funding

The selected candidate will be employed by the University of Gothenburg as a doctoral student. This is a fully funded position with a monthly salary based on university regulations. The student will have access to university resources, international research networks, and academic supervision. Professional development and potential teaching experience are also part of the opportunity.

Teaching and Departmental Duties

Doctoral students may be asked to perform departmental duties for up to 20% of their time. These tasks could include teaching undergraduate or graduate courses, assisting with research, or administrative work. These duties may extend the total study period.

Required Qualifications

To be eligible, candidates need a Master’s degree or equivalent. They must have at least 60 credits in areas like International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, or Global Development Studies. Equivalent academic backgrounds from Sweden or other countries are also considered.

Language Requirements

Applicants must have excellent English speaking and writing skills. Proficiency in languages relevant to the chosen case-study countries is also important for conducting comparative research.

Application Assessment

Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria:

• Research Proposal: A proposal of up to 2,000 words detailing the research problem, objectives, questions, theoretical framework, methodology, and design.
• Academic Publications and Thesis: The quality of the Master’s thesis and any published academic work will be reviewed.
• Curriculum Vitae: The CV should highlight academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills.
• Academic Performance: Grades from previous studies will be considered.
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
• Shortlisting Decisions: September 2026
• Final Decisions: October 2026
• Latest Starting Date: January 2027

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

1. Research Proposal (max 2,000 words)
2. Master’s Thesis
3. Relevant Academic Publications or Research Outputs
4. Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
5. Academic Diplomas
6. Academic Transcripts
7. Evidence of Additional Qualifications
8. Contact Details of Two References

Recommendation letters will not be accepted.

Living and Researching in Sweden

The University of Gothenburg offers support for international researchers moving to Sweden. Sweden is known for its high quality of life, strong research environment, and good work-life balance. The university is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion.

This doctoral position offers a significant opportunity to research a globally important issue. It provides full financial support and access to a leading research environment. It is an ideal chance for those interested in migration, human rights, and international relations to start a successful academic career.