Senior Researcher in Historical Sciences at NTNU Norway |HigherJobz

About Position/Job

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is inviting applications for two full-time Senior Researcher positions (code 1109) in the Department of Historical Sciences, Faculty of Humanities. These two-year fixed-term positions are part of the externally funded research project “All the Names: Culture, Naming Practices and Individual Outcomes in the Past”, led by Professor Francisco J. Beltrán Tapia.

Based in Trondheim, Norway, the positions focus on the historical analysis of naming practices in Europe (circa 1750–1950) using parish records, civil registers, population censuses, and other historical sources. The project integrates historical research, cultural analysis, and quantitative methods to understand how parental values, beliefs, and cultural traditions shaped individual life outcomes. The successful candidates will join an international research environment and are expected to take up the positions by 1 August 2026.

Position/Job Details

Position: Senior Researcher (Code 1109)
Institution: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
Department: Department of Historical Sciences
Faculty: Faculty of Humanities
Research Field: Historical Sciences, Cultural History, Economic History
Location: Trondheim, Norway
Number of Posts: 2
Job Type: Full-time, Senior Researcher (Temporary – 2 Years)
Start Date (Anticipated): August 2026
Working Hours: Full-time
Salary Range: Approx. NOK 740,000 per annum (before tax)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Cultural history and historical demography
Naming practices and cultural transmission
European history (1750–1950)
Family history and parental values
Individual outcomes such as mortality, education, health, and marriage
Quantitative and qualitative historical methods

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Completed a PhD in History, Economics, or a relevant discipline
Candidates close to PhD completion may apply with a documented submission or a defence date
Strong written and spoken English skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Well-developed research proposal aligned with the project theme
Experience with historical sources and/or quantitative methods
Knowledge of relevant European regions or historical periods

Key Responsibilities

Conduct high-quality independent research within the project framework
Actively participate in the ALL-THE-NAMES research group
Publish findings in international academic journals and popular science outlets
Present research at international conferences and workshops
Mentor students and advise on methodology and academic writing

Personal Attributes

Intellectual independence and creativity
Strong motivation and enthusiasm for research
Attention to detail and analytical rigour
Flexibility and openness to refining research plans
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment

What NTNU Offers

A stimulating role in a strong international academic environment
Open, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture
Career guidance and mentor programme for new employees
Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
Excellent employee benefits and work–life balance
Opportunity to live and work in Trondheim, Norway’s innovation capital

Diversity & Inclusion

NTNU values equality, diversity, and inclusion and actively encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, genders, abilities, and life experiences. The university aims to increase the proportion of women in scientific positions and supports balanced representation across academia.

Application Process

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no. All application materials must be in English. Only complete applications received by the deadline will be considered.

Required Documents:

Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages)
Research proposal (maximum 5 pages) outlining questions, sources, theory, and methodology
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Certificates and transcripts (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)
Copy or draft of doctoral thesis
Publications or relevant research work (if any)
Names and contact details of three academic referees

Additional documentation is required for degrees obtained outside Norway. Career breaks or leave periods should be clearly stated in the application.