About the Program
UiT The Arctic University of Norway is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Fellowship in Religious Studies, focused on the mediation of Sámi religion through art, media, and aesthetic expressions. Housed within the Department of Archaeology, History, Religious Studies and Theology (AHR), this interdisciplinary position welcomes applicants from across the humanities and social sciences. Based in Tromsø, the PhD Fellow will join the research group Indigenous Religion(s): Local Grounds, Global Networks (INREL) and contribute to a broader initiative examining the intersections of religion, activism, and cultural expression in Sápmi. The candidate will develop an independent doctoral project exploring how Sámi spirituality is articulated and circulated via visual art, music, media, literature, festivals, and more. Supervision will be provided by academic leaders in Indigenous and Religious Studies including Associate Professor Cato Christensen and Professor Siv Ellen Kraft.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position
- Institution: UiT The Arctic University of Norway
- Department/Faculty: AHR – Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education
- Supervisors: Associate Prof. Cato Christensen, Prof. Siv Ellen Kraft
- Location: Tromsø, Norway
- Start Date (Anticipated): Early 2026
- Duration: 3 years, with potential for a completion grant (up to 1 additional year)
- Funding: Full funding; NOK 550,800/year with annual increase
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s
Research Focus/Area
- Sámi religion and spirituality
- Indigenous studies
- Religious symbols in contemporary culture
- Media, visual arts, and activism
- Interdisciplinary religious and cultural research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Religious Studies or relevant discipline
- English language proficiency
Preferred Qualifications:
- Academic or personal familiarity with Sámi topics
- Proficiency in Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish
- Background in media studies, art history, or Indigenous studies
Key Features of the Program
- International and interdisciplinary research environment
- Affiliation with active research group (INREL)
- Possibility of completion grant post-submission
- Strong focus on Indigenous knowledge and Arctic contexts
- Opportunity to engage in Arctic-focused and global academic discourse
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted via Jobbnorge only
Required Documents:
- Cover letter
- CV
- Diplomas and transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
- Project proposal (max 5 pages)
- Master’s thesis (draft acceptable if near completion)
- References with contact information
- Documentation of language proficiency
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Open now
- Deadline: 15 September 2025
- Interviews (if applicable): TBA
Where to Apply
- University Website: UiT The Arctic University of Norway
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Apply Now via Jobbnorge
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