Ph.D position in Arctic Technology (Environmental Science)

About the position and project

The Arctic Technology Department at UNIS is seeking a highly motivated, independent candidate for a full-time, four-year Ph.D position studying mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation in fish (Arctic char) on Svalbard. The four-year contract includes a year of required duties. Alternatively, the candidate may choose a three-year position which excludes these duties. Applications are also open to this year's master's candidates, with the requirement that the master's degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025. The desired start date is during August, and no later than September 1st. The project is a collaborative effort involving UNIS, NTNU, and international partners, including Aarhus University (Denmark).

The vacant Ph.D position is within the field of Arctic environmental science and ecotoxicology, focusing on Hg contamination in aquatic ecosystems. Mercury pollution is of pressing global concern, and the high-latitude regions of Svalbard are especially vulnerable to deposition, permafrost thaw, and subsequent biomagnification of Hg in aquatic food webs. This project aims to investigate Hg bioaccumulation and its geographical distribution in Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), focusing on ecosystems in Svalbard. The research will explore the complex interactions between environmental, biological and human factors driving mercury bioaccumulation and methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity.

This project aims to advance our understanding of Hg cycling and MeHg accumulation in Arctic ecosystems. A key goal is to link environmental parameters—such as lake chemistry and
watershed characteristics—to Hg loads in Arctic char, thereby informing risk assessments and best practices for safe fish consumption in local communities.

Within this framework, you will focus on fieldwork in Svalbard lakes (including sampling fish, invertebrates, sediments, and water) and subsequent laboratory analyses of Hg and MeHg at UNIS and NTNU. An important aspect of the research involves integrating biological, chemical, and socio-ecological (fish catch and consumption rates) data to quantify and model Hg bioaccumulation. Thus, you will interact with local stakeholders, fishers, and community organizations to assess current fishing practices and consumption patterns. The project will also include short research stays, at NTNU in Trondheim for taking courses and, at Aarhus University in Denmark for specialized laboratory work, advanced data analysis, or training. Furthermore, you should also help to seek external funding—such as an Arctic Field Grant—to support field campaigns and travel.

The role involves substantial fieldwork in Svalbard—both in summer and winter—and can be physically demanding, requiring the use of snowmobiles and small boats for transportation.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a field relevant for the position (environmental sciences, biology, ecology, chemistry, or a related field) or the degree must be completed by July 1st, 2025
• Admission to a doctoral programme at an Norwegian University is a condition for the employment
• Proficient in both written and oral English
• Driver’s license class B (valid for Svalbard)

Advantageous knowledge and skills

• A keen interest in arctic research and sustainability challenges
• The capacity to work independently in remote environments while collaborating effectively in an international, interdisciplinary setting
• A strong background and interest in as many of the following themes (where relevant for your project proposal):
  • Previous laboratory experience
  • Experience in field work
  • Experience in statistics and data analysis
  • Familiarity with ecotoxicological methods
• Scientific writing, including authorship of scientific publications and presentation at scientific conferences 

Motivation and personal suitability will be emphasized.

We offer

UNIS offers a challenging and varied job in an exciting, pleasant, and international environment. As an employee, you will be a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK), which provides one of the best pension schemes on the market. We also offer excellent insurance schemes, coverage of travel and relocation expenses upon starting the position, and staff housing in accordance with current regulations.

The position is classified under the job code “Stipendiat” (code 1017). In addition to the base salary, a Svalbard allowance of NOK 42.840 per annum is provided. A 2 % contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund is deducted from the salary. The income tax rate in Svalbard is currently 8 %, and a national insurance contribution of 7.7 % is also deducted.

Application

Inquiries about this position, may be directed to:
Associate Professor Tomasz Maciej Ciesielski, email: tomaszc@unis.no
 

Application deadline 25.04.2025.
 

Please include the following documents to the online application form:

• Motivational letter (max. 1 page) to state applicants scientific and personal interest in pursuing a Ph.D on the announced topic and at UNIS
• Full academic CV
• Transcripts and diplomas showing the completion of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, alternatively an official confirmation that the master’s degree will be completed by 1st July, 2025
• Contact information for two references, one of which must be your master's supervisor
   

It is possible to request that your name/application be exempt from public disclosure in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (Offentlighetsloven) § 25. The request must be justified. Please note that if the request is not granted, the applicant will be contacted and given the opportunity to withdraw the application.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

One of UNIS’ values is inclusion. We are committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment in the high Arctic. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

Selection and appointment
A committee appointed by the Managing director of UNIS will evaluate the qualifications of the applicants and invite the highest ranked person(s) for an interview. The appointment will be made by the Director of UNIS based on the recommendation from the committee.

DIVERSE INFO

Kilde: NAV stillingsannonser
https://arbeidsplassen.nav.no/stillinger/stilling/d376b27b-7244-4d02-bc5d-15f5cc6ffbdd
IMPORTAPI
https://www.jobbnorge.no/ledige-stillinger/stilling/278033