University of Gothenburg Fully Funded PhD Scholarship 2026: Apply for Peace and Development Research in Sweden

The University of Gothenburg, Sweden, has officially announced applications for a Fully Funded PhD Scholarship 2026 in Peace and Development Research under its prestigious School of Global Studies.

The doctoral position is part of an internationally significant research project titled “Host-State Responses to Transnational Repression (TNR),” which focuses on how democratic countries respond to authoritarian attempts to monitor, silence, or suppress diaspora communities and activists abroad.

This fully funded doctoral opportunity is ideal for highly motivated scholars seeking advanced academic and interdisciplinary research exposure in Peace and Conflict Studies, International Relations, Global Development, and related Social Science disciplines.

Selected candidates will work within an international academic environment alongside interdisciplinary researchers and global policy experts.

Fellowship Overview

The selected doctoral researcher will contribute to research examining host-state responses toward transnational repression activities.

Key themes include:

• Protection Mechanisms for Diaspora Communities
• Border Management & Immigration Systems
• Law Enforcement Responses to TNR Incidents
• Comparative Politics & International Policy
• Civil Society Collaboration
• Peace & Conflict Governance
• Investigation Frameworks for Cross-Border Authoritarian Influence

Research case studies may include countries such as:

• Sweden
• Norway
• Estonia

Programme Structure

The PhD programme is structured over four years:

Year 1

• Compulsory Academic Coursework

Years 2–4

• Independent Research
• Data Collection & Analysis
• Dissertation Writing

The position may also include:

• Teaching Responsibilities
• Departmental Administration
• Academic Service Activities

Additional duties up to 20% may extend the employment duration accordingly.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy Swedish doctoral admission requirements.

General Eligibility

Candidates must possess:

• Master’s Degree or Equivalent Qualification
OR
• Minimum 240 Higher Education Credits including 60 Credits at Master’s Level

Preferred Academic Background

Applicants from the following fields are encouraged to apply:

• International Relations
• Peace & Conflict Studies
• Global Development Studies
• Political Science
• Related Social Science Disciplines

Additional Requirements

• Excellent English Communication Skills
• Strong Academic Writing Ability
• Independent Research Capability

Preferred Advantage:

• Knowledge of Nordic or Baltic Languages

Required Application Documents

Applicants must upload:

• Research Proposal (Maximum 2,000 Words)
• Updated Academic CV (Europass Format Preferred)
• Master’s Thesis / Research Publications
• Academic Transcripts & Certificates
• Contact Details of Two Referees

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

• Fully Funded Doctoral Employment
• Monthly Salary as per Swedish University Standards
• Tuition Fee Coverage
• International Research Exposure
• Access to Interdisciplinary Research Networks
• Teaching & Academic Development Opportunities
• Participation in International Conferences & Publications

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply online through the University of Gothenburg recruitment portal before the application deadline.

Official Website:https://www.gu.se

Official Careers Portal:
https://www.gu.se/en/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/vacancies

Vacancy Reference Code:
PAR 2026/385

Important Dates