Researcher

Lund University Faculty of Social Sciences Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS)

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the worlds top universities. The University has around 46 000 students and 8 500 staff based in Lund Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand explain and improve our world and the human condition.

Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS)

The Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS) is an institute hosting research and education to address sustainability challenges with a critical perspective and solutions-based approaches. Our research projects focus on five sustainability themes: climate change & resilience land-use governance & development urban governance & transformation energy justice & sustainability of energy systems and biodiversity & natural resource management. Our research is often conducted in national and international cooperation. LUCSUS strives to catalyse change on both a local and a global level for a more sustainable society and future. The educational programmes at LUCSUS include two Master programmes (LUMES & LUCAS) and a PhD research school. The working language of LUCSUS is English. As of 1 January 2019 LUCSUS is part of the Social Sciences faculty at Lund University.

Research on energy transitions

The successful candidate will conduct research on energy transitions that contributes to several ongoing projects at LUCSUS. Part of the work will be conducted as part of a new pilot project on the repurposing of old fossil fuel infrastructures (such as coal mines and oil/gas wells) for geothermal energy. Another part of the work will focus on energy transitions in island communities in the Baltic Sea. As part of the position there will be opportunities to conduct original research work with other researchers and non-academic stakeholders write academic articles and produce outputs for non-academic audiences.

Required qualifications

The main research tasks for the position will be linked closely to ongoing research at LUCSUS on energy transitions. They will contribute to several research projects in different stages which means that the successful candidate will engage in diverse tasks from initial scoping studies to writing academic publications. There will also be the opportunity to be involved in data collection. This will be primarily through desk-based research but there will also be opportunities to visit field sites in different countries. Some international travel is therefore required. As the successful candidate will contribute to multiple projects it is important that they find it interesting to learn about new topics are able to manage their time effectively and can work effectively independently and as part of a team.

The ideal candidate for the position will have the following specific qualifications:

• A PhD in Sustainability Science Human Geography or a related field completed latest by 1 August 2026.
• Strong interest in critical social science approaches to energy transitions research as documented for example by previous engagements with political economy or energy/climate justice concepts
• Interest in understanding the basic technical aspects of complex energy technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage or geothermal energy to facilitate interdisciplinary conversation
• Documented ability to publish scientific articles about energy research in social science journals such as Energy Research and Social Science Energy Policy or Climate Policy.
• Documented ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary research team and environment
• Documented ability to manage your time effectively
• Excellent skills in written and spoken English
• Excellent language skills in at least one Scandinavian language
• Enthusiasm to contribute to departmental life at LUCSUS

Desired qualifications

In addition the following qualifications strengthen a candidates profile:

• Experience with research methods relevant to the projects (e.g. elite interviews stakeholder mapping)
• Experience in engaging with societal debates on energy issues for example through the publication of op-eds or participation in media interviews or panel discussions
• Experience engaging in diverse teaching activities such as giving lectures leading seminars and/or supervising (Master) theses

Assessment criteria

The assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific merits and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific ability within the subject area.

Application procedure

Applications are to be submitted electronically via the Lund University application portal. The application must include:

• A cover letter in English of max. 1500 words that explains how your qualifications make you suitable for the position (with reference to the specific qualifications listed above).
• A CV in English that demonstrates your qualifications for the position
• Degree and grade certificates.
• A copy of your PhD thesis
• Name and contact information of two professional references (note: letters of reference are not required in the first stage of application).

Interviews will be conducted with a shortlisted number of applicants during the final stages of the admission process. Lund University encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We regard gender equality and diversity as a strength and an asset.

The Faculty of Social Sciences at Lund University is one of the leading education and research institutions in Sweden and operates both in Lund and Helsingborg.

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Employment Type : Part-Time
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1