About the Program
The University of Oslo invites applications for a fully funded PhD in heritage conservation titled “POLYCHROME ‒ The Survival of Damaged Medieval Polychromed Heritage in the Nordics” at the Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History. This doctoral position focuses on histories of restoration, iconoclastic damage, and conservation of medieval polychrome paintings and sculptures from Scandinavian churches, addressing evolving attitudes to devotional images and restored heritage. The project will be supervised by Professor Noëlle Streeton and aligns with the ERC-funded POLYCHROME research theme. The research duration is 3 years and is based in Oslo, Norway, with an expected start date of September 2026. The project offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, archival research, international networking and advanced research training in heritage conservation.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Oslo
- Department/Faculty: Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History
- Supervisor: Professor Noëlle Streeton
- Location: Oslo, Norway
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
- Duration: 3 years
- No. of posts: 1
- Funding: Full funding, including salary NOK 550,800–595,800 and pension benefits
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in conservation of paintings or polychrome sculpture
Research Focus/Area
- Heritage conservation of medieval polychrome materials
- Histories of restoration and iconoclasm
- Scandinavian church heritage practices
- Interdisciplinary archival, material and theoretical studies
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant conservation discipline
- Fluent English (written and spoken)
- Reading proficiency in a Scandinavian language
- Eligibility for PhD admission at the University of Oslo
Preferred Qualifications
- Research experience with medieval polychromed objects
- Strong archival research skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- Proven ability to meet research deadlines
Key Features of the Program
- Structured doctoral training within an ERC-funded research project
- Highly international research environment
- Access to museum collections and archival resources
- Multidisciplinary collaboration with leading researchers
- Conference participation and travel funding
- Ongoing professional and academic development support
Application Process
How to Apply
- Submit applications via the Jobbnorge recruitment system
- Follow all instructions provided in the official university call
Required Documents
- Application letter
- Academic CV
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Research proposal (if required)
- Language proficiency documentation
- Any additional documents specified in the official announcement
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now open
- Deadline: 22 March 2026
- Interviews: Short-listed candidates will be invited to interview
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Oslo
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
