About the Program
The University of Bergen invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Literature and Generative AI, based at the internationally recognised Centre for Digital Narrative within the Department of Linguistic, Literary and Aesthetic Studies. Starting in November 2025, this four-year doctoral fellowship will be part of the ERC-funded project AI STORIES, led by Professor Jill Walker Rettberg. The project explores how generative AI models reproduce and exaggerate deep narrative structures found in training datasets, potentially introducing cultural narrative bias. The PhD candidate will pursue an independent project within this framework, leading to a doctorate in Digital Culture, Comparative Literature, or Nordic Literature. The role includes 2.5 years of research and 1 year of career-development duties such as teaching or dissemination. Based in Bergen, Norway, the Centre provides a vibrant research environment, extensive training, and strong international collaboration.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Bergen
- Department/Faculty: Department of Linguistic, Literary and Aesthetic Studies / Faculty of Humanities
- Supervisor: Professor Jill Walker Rettberg
- Location: Bergen, Norway
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully funded (NOK 568,700 annually; Code 1017)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in relevant field
Research Focus/Area
- Literature and Generative AI
- Digital Culture
- Comparative Literature
- Nordic Literature
- Narrative Theory
- Cultural Bias in AI Outputs
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in literary studies, digital culture, or related discipline
- Degree must be awarded by the application deadline
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in narrative studies, AI, or digital culture
- Academic writing or publication record
- Independent working style and strong collaboration skills
- Interest in cultural studies or digital methodologies
Key Features of the Program
- Doctoral training through the Faculty of Humanities PhD programme (30 ECTS)
- Research embedded in the ERC-funded AI STORIES project
- Interdisciplinary research environment
- Opportunities for teaching and public dissemination
- Participation in international symposia, training schools, and exhibitions
- Dedicated work facilities at the Centre for Digital Narrative
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted electronically via the Jobbnorge portal. Documents should be in English or a Scandinavian language (PDF or Word format only).
Required Documents:
- Project proposal (max 5 pages / 12,000 characters excluding bibliography)
- Bibliography and project progress plan
- Motivation letter and research interests
- Summary of master’s thesis (up to 3 pages)
- CV
- Degree certificates and transcripts (with ECTS details)
- Up to three academic works/publications
- List of scientific publications (if applicable)
- Two referees (one must be master’s thesis supervisor)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 15 August 2025
- Interviews (if applicable): To be announced
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Bergen
- Official Notification: UiB Job Listing – Jobbnorge
- Application Portal: Apply via Jobbnorge
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