PhD in modelling state shifts and transient population dynamics of iconic alpine birds

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About the position

The Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture at Nord University, Norway, invites applications from outstanding candidates for a three-year PhD position in alpine ecosystems.

Ecosystems are currently facing rapid transformation all over the world. In alpine ecosystems, it is well known that climate change have a strong influence on the system dynamics, often in synergy with other human-caused perturbations to the system. Under periods with rapid environmental change, a key discussion in population ecology is connected to the potential existence of different (stable or unstable) states to which the system can be attracted. Such state-dependent dynamics is key to both basic and applied ecology. The PhD project will use both advanced statistical and mathematical modelling to enhance our understanding of state shifts and state-dependent population dynamics. The main objective is to understand better the key demographic and environmental that transition alpine bird populations from one state to another. The successful candidate will have access to extensive, long-term field data from alpine ecosystems in Norway, with the willow ptarmigan serving as the model species. Some fieldwork in scenic alpine environments should be expected.

The appointed candidate will be affiliated with the Ecology Research Division.

The position is offered for a three-year period and will be based in Steinkjer, Trøndelag, Norway.

The appointment is scheduled to commence on 1 January 2027, or on another date by mutual agreement.

Qualification requirements

• A master’s degree in ecology or a closely related field is required.
• An overall grade average of B or better (ECTS scale) is required for both the master’s degree programme and the master’s thesis for admission to the PhD programme.
• Employment is conditional upon admission to the Faculty’s doctoral programme in Biosciences.
• The final PhD project outline must be approved within three months of appointment. Failure to obtain admission, to submit required annual progress reports, or to demonstrate satisfactory progress or duty work may result in termination of the contract.
• Good proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
• The PhD thesis may be written in English or Norwegian (or another Scandinavian language).
• See admission requirements: PhD in Biosciences

Desired Qualifications

• Solid background in population ecology.
• Good knowledge of natural resource management.
• Working knowledge of the statistical software R.
• Strong skills and/or a clear interest in mathematical and statistical modelling.
• Ability and willingness to conduct fieldwork in remote alpine environments.
• A proven record in scientific writing (e.g. peer‑reviewed publications) is an advantage, but not a prerequisite.

Candidates who already have a PhD degree will not be considered for the position.

Qualified applicants will be ranked according to the following criteria:

• Theme and perspectives from the applicant’s master’s study. Project outline with description of project idea and plan for implementation
• The applicant’s description of motivation for the doctoral work and opportunities for completion
• Relevant experience from research work
• Ability to work independently, goal-oriented and systematically
• Personal suitability

We offer

The annual salary for doctoral researchers (code 1017) is NOK 565 000,-.

• Advantages within the Government Pension Fund for loans, insurance and pension
• Creative and collegial working environment
• A workplace with progressive development
• Flexible working hours  
• Active university sports team

General information

The person who is appointed must abide by the applicable laws, agreements, and directives. The responsibilities and duties associated with the position may change with future reorganization at Nord University.

Nord University is subject to the Security Act, which sets requirements for the handling of classified and sensitive information. To increase security in the hiring process, Nord may conduct background checks on relevant candidates.

The public sector workforce is expected to reflect the diversity of the population in general. Nord University therefore encourages qualified candidates with disabilities, gaps in their CV, immigrant backgrounds or different life experience to apply. 

If applicants indicate they have disabilities or gaps in their CV, their details may be used anonymously for the purposes of governmental annual review.

For this position, Nord University is cautious about hiring individuals with connections to countries that PST has identified as key threat actors in its annual threat assessment.

Application process

Applicants will be evaluated by an internal expert committee. Relevant applicants will be invited for an interview, trial lecture or other presentations. For more information, see Nord`s website .

The Faculty reserve the right not to hire applicants who may be scientifically qualified but who do not meet other criteria such as language, educational background or personal characteristics

Application

Applications must be submitted electronically by 04.09.2026

The application should include:

• Application letter with description of your motivation for applying for the position
• Complete CV (education, work and teaching experience and overview of any scientific publications)
• Copy of diploma for both bachelor and master education and relevant certificates
• Applicants with education from countries outside Scandinavia with diplomas issued in a language other than English, must enclose witnessed diplomas in both the original language and authorized English translations
• Applicants from outside the EU/EEA must submit HK-dir approval of their master´s degree
• Copy of the applicant’s master’s thesis
• Name and contact information of 1-3 references (name, your relation to the person, email and phone number)
• Other activity that is considered relevant for the position, and wishes to be taken into account in the assessment

All documents must be uploaded as attachments as a PDF files to the electronic application form.

It is the applicant's responsibility to submit the complete documentation within the deadline.

After the application period has expired a list of applicants will be published. Note that, in special cases, the identity of particular applicants to a position may be made public even when that applicant has requested that their application be processed confidentially. Applicants requesting an exemption from publication of their identity must explain their reasons for doing so in their application. In this case, advance notice will be given in the event of a decision to make any information about the applicant public.

Refnr. 30255479