EpoMag Opportunities Org. | Email: info@euromagopportunities.org

Welcome to EpoMag Opportunities Org.

The Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026 in Norway presents an outstanding opportunity for postdoctoral researchers interested in sustainability, social justice, geography, and science and technology studies (STS). Hosted by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), this fully funded three-year postdoctoral position is part of the innovative JUST-MAP research project, which explores fair transitions in mineral extraction.

As countries accelerate the transition to renewable energy, the demand for critical minerals continues to grow. Norway is reviving its mining sector to secure essential resources for green technologies, defense, and national security. However, expanding mining activities raises important questions about environmental protection, Indigenous rights, and local community participation.

The JUST-MAP project seeks to address these complex challenges by combining science and technology studies (STS) with human geography to develop a socio-technical framework that supports equitable and sustainable mineral extraction.

This fellowship provides researchers with the opportunity to conduct meaningful fieldwork, collaborate with municipalities and Sami communities, and contribute to research that can shape future mining policies in Norway and beyond.

About NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is Norway's largest university and a globally respected institution known for excellence in technical, natural, and social sciences.

Located in Trondheim, NTNU has earned a strong international reputation for interdisciplinary research that addresses global challenges. The university encourages collaboration across disciplines, creating innovative solutions in sustainability, climate change, energy, technology, and society.

The Department of Interdisciplinary Cultural Studies (KULT) hosts the JUST-MAP project and works closely with NTNU's renowned research groups, including:

Center for Climate, Energy and Environment (CLEEN)
Spatial and Temporal Analytics Research Group

Together, these research environments provide postdoctoral fellows with access to outstanding academic resources, experienced supervisors, and collaborative international networks.

What is the JUST-MAP Project?

Advancing Fair Mineral Extraction

JUST-MAP is a three-year interdisciplinary research initiative examining how Norway can responsibly reopen mines while ensuring fairness for local communities and Indigenous populations.

The project focuses on balancing national demand for critical minerals with environmental sustainability, local participation, and Sami rights.

Rather than viewing mining only as an economic activity, JUST-MAP explores its social, political, cultural, and environmental dimensions.

Socio-Technical Research Framework

Researchers will combine perspectives from:

Science and Technology Studies (STS)
Human Geography
Sociology
Social Anthropology
Participatory Mapping
Community Engagement

This interdisciplinary approach helps policymakers understand how technological development affects people, landscapes, and local governance.

Why Choose the Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026?

This fellowship offers far more than financial support.

Researchers become part of an internationally recognized research community dedicated to solving real-world sustainability challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.

The position allows fellows to conduct independent research while directly engaging with municipalities, policymakers, Indigenous communities, and environmental stakeholders.

It is an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in sustainability transitions, environmental governance, and social justice.

Benefits of the Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026

The fellowship provides an attractive package of financial and professional benefits.

Competitive Annual Salary

Successful applicants receive an annual gross salary of approximately NOK 633,400, making this one of Norway's highly competitive postdoctoral research opportunities.

Career Development

NTNU provides structured career guidance throughout the fellowship.

Researchers will develop personalized career plans designed to strengthen academic leadership, research independence, and long-term career prospects.

Mentorship Programme

New employees participate in NTNU's mentoring scheme, receiving guidance from experienced researchers who support both professional and personal development.

Pension Benefits

The fellowship includes favorable membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, offering long-term financial security.

Employee Benefits

Researchers enjoy access to various employee benefits available at NTNU, including professional development opportunities, workplace wellness initiatives, and institutional support services.

Inclusive International Environment

NTNU promotes diversity and inclusion while providing an open academic culture where researchers from around the world collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.

Societal Impact

Unlike many traditional research positions, this fellowship directly contributes to important policy discussions regarding sustainability, Indigenous rights, and responsible resource management.

Research Responsibilities

Successful candidates will play an active role within the JUST-MAP project.

Lead Fieldwork

Researchers will conduct extensive fieldwork across three Norwegian municipalities:

Røyrvik
Fauske
Sør-Varanger

These locations have active or proposed mining developments and involve close collaboration with local governments and Sami communities.

Conduct Qualitative Research

Fieldwork includes:

Stakeholder mapping
In-depth interviews
Community workshops
Participatory mapping
Collaborative research activities

The goal is to document diverse perspectives surrounding mineral extraction and just transitions.

Theory Development

Researchers will contribute to developing new theoretical frameworks that combine STS and geography to better understand sustainability transitions.

Knowledge Dissemination

The fellow will publish academic articles, contribute to policy briefs, present findings at conferences, and communicate research through popular science publications.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should possess a strong academic background and relevant research experience.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must have:

A completed PhD in Science and Technology Studies (STS), geography, sociology, social anthropology, or a closely related discipline
Alternatively, documented proof that the doctoral thesis has been submitted or the defense date confirmed
Experience with qualitative research methods
Strong English communication skills
Good written and spoken Norwegian or another Scandinavian language

Preferred Experience

Competitive applicants will also demonstrate experience in:

Participatory research
Community engagement
Indigenous studies
Environmental governance
Sustainability transitions
Mapping methodologies
Social research involving public participation

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submission.

These include:

Bachelor's degree transcripts and diploma
Master's degree transcripts and diploma
PhD diploma or confirmation of thesis submission
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Doctoral thesis or draft
Research plan (maximum two pages)
Up to three relevant publications
Relevant certificates
Contact information for three referees
Documentation for international qualifications
HK-dir assessment where applicable

Ensuring all documents are complete will strengthen your application.

How to Apply for the Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026

Applications must be submitted electronically through Jobbnorge.no.

Follow these steps carefully.

Step 1

Prepare all required academic documentation.

Step 2

Update your CV highlighting relevant research experience.

Step 3

Write a research plan explaining how your expertise contributes to the JUST-MAP project.

Step 4

Attach your doctoral thesis or draft together with relevant publications.

Step 5

Provide contact details for three academic referees.

Step 6

Submit the complete application through Jobbnorge before the application deadline.

Incomplete or late applications cannot be considered.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is 15 August 2026.Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Why Conduct Research in Norway?

Norway is internationally recognized for its commitment to sustainability, environmental protection, and high-quality research.

Researchers benefit from:

Excellent work-life balance
Modern research infrastructure
High research funding
Safe living environment
Outstanding public services
Strong academic freedom
Beautiful natural landscapes
Internationally connected universities

For scholars interested in sustainability and environmental governance, Norway provides one of the world's most supportive research environments.

Career Opportunities After the Fellowship

Completing this postdoctoral fellowship opens doors to numerous career pathways.

Graduates frequently pursue positions such as:

University faculty member
Research group leader
Sustainability policy advisor
Environmental governance specialist
International research consultant
Social scientist
Government researcher
NGO policy expert

The fellowship also strengthens experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, grant writing, stakeholder engagement, and research leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026 cover?

The fellowship provides full funding for three years, an annual gross salary of approximately NOK 633,400, pension benefits, career development support, mentoring, and funding for fieldwork conducted within the JUST-MAP project.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants should hold or be close to completing a PhD in STS, geography, sociology, social anthropology, or another closely related discipline.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted electronically no later than 15 August 2026.

What is the JUST-MAP project?

JUST-MAP is an interdisciplinary research project that investigates how Norway can achieve fair and socially just transitions while reopening mineral extraction projects.

Where will the research take place?

The position is based at NTNU in Trondheim, while fieldwork is conducted in Røyrvik, Fauske, and Sør-Varanger.

Can I apply before defending my PhD?

Yes. Applicants may apply if their doctoral thesis has been submitted or an official defense date has been confirmed. However, proof of PhD completion is required before employment begins.

Is Norwegian language proficiency required?

Yes. Since the research involves collaboration with Norwegian municipalities and Sami communities, applicants must possess good written and spoken Norwegian or another Scandinavian language.

What fieldwork will be involved?

Researchers will conduct interviews, stakeholder mapping, participatory workshops, and community-based research with local authorities, residents, and Indigenous stakeholders.

What career support does NTNU provide?

NTNU offers personalized career planning, mentoring, research networking, grant application support, and opportunities to contribute to academic publications, policy briefs, and public engagement activities.

Official Website Apply Now

Follow our Social Media Platforms: WhatsApp Groups | Facebook Page

Comments

Disclaimer — EpoMag Opportunities Org

Disclaimer

EpoMag Opportunities Org provides information on scholarships that are publicly available. Unless explicitly stated, we are not affiliated with or endorsed by the institutions mentioned.

Some listings are drawn from public sources or submitted by users. We aim to share accurate and current details, but we cannot guarantee the completeness accuracy or ongoing availability of the opportunities posted.

For corrections updates or concerns please contact us.

Mineral Extraction Scholarship 2026 in Norway | Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowship at NTNU