About the PhD Position
The University of Oslo invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Medieval Heritage, Religion and Art History within the Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History in Oslo, Norway. This doctoral opportunity forms part of the European Research Council-funded POLYCHROME project, which investigates the survival of damaged medieval polychromed heritage in the Nordic region. Furthermore, the research specifically examines evolving attitudes towards devotional images that were selectively mutilated during and after the Reformations.
The doctoral project focuses on analysing historical sources that reveal changing perceptions of medieval objects in post-Reformation Scandinavia. Moreover, the research contributes to broader debates in religious history, heritage studies, and iconoclasm research. The project will be supervised by Professor Noëlle Streeton and is affiliated with the interdisciplinary POLYCHROME research network funded by the European Research Council.
The PhD position is funded for three years and offers an annual salary ranging from NOK 550,800 to NOK 595,800. Importantly, candidates who submit their doctoral dissertations within the expected timeline may receive additional completion funding. The research will involve archival investigation, historical analysis, and comparative studies across Scandinavian contexts such as Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
The programme provides structured doctoral training at the Faculty of Humanities and strong international collaboration opportunities. Consequently, this opportunity is ideal for candidates with backgrounds in history, religious studies, or art history who aim to develop advanced academic careers in heritage research and historical scholarship.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Medieval Heritage, Religion and Art History
- Institution: University of Oslo, Norway
- Department: Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History, Faculty of Humanities
- Research Group: POLYCHROME – ERC Research Project
- Supervisor: Professor Noëlle Streeton
- Location: Oslo, Norway
- Duration: 3 years (with possible completion grant)
- Start Date: September 2026 (latest)
- Funding: Gross annual salary NOK 550,800–595,800 under the ERC POLYCHROME Project
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree in History of Religion, Early Modern History, Art History, or Social Anthropology
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Research Focus
The PhD project may explore topics such as:
- Pre- and post-Reformation theological positions on image-breaking
- Iconoclasm, image worship, and devotional traditions in Scandinavian churches
- Idolatry, heresy, and Catholic practices in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries
- Historical responses to the neglect of medieval churches and objects
- Comparative studies of iconoclastic events across Europe
- Gender perspectives within post-Reformation religious heritage
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in history, religious studies, art history, or related discipline
- Strong academic background in medieval or early modern history
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
- Fluent English communication skills
- Reading proficiency in a Scandinavian language
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with primary historical sources
- Knowledge of Latin or German sources
- Interest in medieval heritage and church artefacts
- Strong collaboration and time management skills
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Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the university’s online recruitment system.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter explaining qualifications and research interests
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research project proposal (3–5 pages)
- Proof of English proficiency is required
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 22 March 2026
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Oslo
- Department Information: Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History
- Official Job Announcement: Doctoral Research Fellowship – POLYCHROME Project
- Application Portal: Jobbnorge Recruitment System
📧 Contact for Queries
Email: n.l.w.streeton@iakh.uio.no
Email: eirinn.larsen@iakh.uio.no
This fellowship offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking fully funded doctoral training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced research opportunities in Norway.
