University of Oslo Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Global Life-Course Criminology
Are you an early-career researcher interested in how life experiences shape crime around the world? The University of Oslo Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Global Life-Course Criminology offers a chance to join a major new project. This fully funded role lets you work with top experts on crime patterns across different countries.
About the Fellowship
The University of Oslo, or UiO, runs this postdoctoral research fellowship through its Department of Criminology and Sociology of Law. You will work under Professor Sveinung Sandberg on the CRIMLIFE project, funded by the European Research Council. The position lasts three years for research only, or four years if you include 25% teaching or admin duties. It starts in spring 2026 in Oslo, Norway. Pay ranges from NOK 595,000 to 680,000 per year, based on your experience.
Details of the CRIMLIFE Project
CRIMLIFE studies global comparative life-course criminology. It looks at how state, family, jobs, and culture affect criminal paths and why people stop offending. The project compares six countries: Norway, Czech Republic, Türkiye, Nigeria, India, and Colombia. It uses a mix of methods, like 900 qualitative life-story interviews with 300 people and large surveys. This work fills gaps in criminology, which often focuses only on Western countries, by including views from the Global South.
Your Research Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead global comparative qualitative research in several countries. You will write and publish academic articles. Other tasks include coding and analyzing data, organizing it, and helping with project management and reports. You will handle ethical approvals, data plans, and use TSD for sensitive data. Expect to join seminars, workshops, and international teamwork for sharing results.
Eligibility Criteria
You need a PhD or equal degree in criminology, sociology, psychology, political science, or a related social science field. Submit your thesis by the deadline, and it must be approved before you start. Strong English skills in writing and speaking are required, plus knowledge of research ethics. Preferred skills include experience with life-history interviews, narrative analysis, life-course criminology, or work in the project countries. Interest in comparative qualitative research helps too.
Key Personal Skills
Hire top candidates show strong independent research skills. They communicate well and collaborate in international teams. Look for people with initiative, motivation, and a structured work style.
Benefits of the Position
UiO provides a lively academic setting with career growth options. You gain access to a worldwide research network. Enjoy up to 1.5 hours of exercise each week during work time. The pension and welfare benefits are solid. If needed, get support to build teaching skills.
Reasons to Apply
This fellowship suits researchers who want high-impact work on global crime studies. You will gain fieldwork experience abroad and team up with leading criminology experts. Help shape new ideas in interdisciplinary research on crime.
How to Apply
Submit these in English or a Scandinavian language: a cover letter on your motivation and fit, a 4-7 page project proposal with goals, methods, ethics, and link to CRIMLIFE, your CV, transcripts, up to three publications, two referee contacts, and optional thesis assessment. Apply online through the provided link.
Application Deadline
The deadline is April 30, 2026. UiO, Norway’s top university with over 26,500 students, hosts this in its strong criminology department.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CRIMLIFE project about?
CRIMLIFE studies how life experiences like family, jobs, and culture shape crime paths in six countries, including Norway and Colombia, using interviews and surveys.
What are the eligibility requirements for the fellowship?
You need a PhD in criminology, sociology, or a related field, strong English skills, and knowledge of research ethics; experience with life-history interviews is preferred.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is April 30, 2026.
What is the salary range for this position?
Pay ranges from NOK 595,000 to 680,000 per year, depending on your experience.