About the PhD Position
The University of Bergen invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Arabic Studies and Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the Department of Foreign Languages. The project focuses on Arabic historical research, particularly the Arabian Peninsula and the western Indian Ocean between 1500 and 1800, contributing to global scholarship in Arabic, Middle Eastern, and Islamic Studies.
Moreover, the selected candidate will join the research group in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. You will conduct both independent and collaborative research using Arabic legal and historiographical sources. In addition, the university provides strong academic networks, rich library archives, and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities. As a result, you will work in a highly supportive environment that promotes high-impact research publications.
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Arabic or Middle Eastern/Islamic Studies with proven experience in Arabic-language materials. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate excellent proficiency in both English and Arabic. Strong research, communication, and teamwork skills are also essential for success in this competitive PhD programme.
This is a full-time, Fully Funded PhD position for four years, starting in October 2026 or as agreed. It offers a competitive salary, research funding, and excellent career development opportunities. Additionally, the programme provides access to international conferences, academic training, and global research networks, ensuring strong career progression in academia.
Explore fully funded Humanities scholarships, PhD positions, and academic jobs for international scholars seeking global research careers in Middle Eastern studies and related disciplines.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Arabic & Middle Eastern Studies
- Position type: PhD Research Fellowship
- Institution: University of Bergen, Norway
- Department: Department of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Humanities
- Research Group: Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies
- Supervisor: Not specified (contact Martin Paulsen / Eirik Hovden)
- Location: Bergen
- Country: Norway
- Duration: 4 years (including teaching component)
- Start Date: October 2026 or flexible
- Funding: Gross annual salary of NOK 568,700
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree in Arabic or related field
Discover top postdoctoral fellowships, research scholarships, and academic jobs in Norway, including the University of Bergen, for international researchers pursuing funded research and global academic collaboration.
Research Area
- Arabic Studies
- Middle Eastern History
- Islamic Studies
- Historiography
- Legal Text Analysis
- Arabian Peninsula Studies
- Indian Ocean Studies
Browse more Arabic and Middle Eastern academic positions, postdoctoral fellowships, and interdisciplinary research opportunities worldwide, connecting scholars with fully funded research and global academic careers.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Arabic or Middle Eastern/Islamic Studies
- Proven experience with Arabic-language sources
- Proficiency in written and spoken English and Arabic
- Strong research and analytical skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in historical research (1500–1800 focus)
- Knowledge of Islamic legal or historiographical texts
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Discover fully funded PhD positions and scholarships for international students, and start your career at top global universities while pursuing advanced doctoral research and international academic opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent doctoral research
- Develop and submit a PhD thesis
- Participate in teaching and academic duties
- Engage in research dissemination and collaboration
- Complete required coursework (30 ECTS)
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official application portal.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- CV with referees
- Research proposal (max 12,000 characters)
- Progress plan
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Master’s thesis summary
- Publication list (if applicable)
- Supporting certificates
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
- Interviews: For shortlisted candidates
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Bergen
- Department Information: Department of Foreign Languages
- Official Job Announcement: PhD Research Fellowship in Arabic
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: m.paulsen@uib.no / eirik.hovden@uib.no
- Phone: +47 55 58 23 86 / +47 55 58 80 93
This PhD programme offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking Fully Funded research support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced academic training at the University of Bergen in Norway.
Find the latest fully funded scholarships, postdoctoral fellowships, and global research opportunities now on HigherJobz – your gateway to advancing an international academic career today.




