Postdoctoral researcher in human geography

The Department of Geography seeks applications for an open postdoc position. The successful applicant is expected to contribute to the project “Money makes the world go round? Geographical perspectives on downshifting and voluntary simplicity as sustainable ways of life”, financed by the Swedish research council FORMAS.

The project and duties
The postdoctoral project focuses on individual, municipal and spatial issues through case studies in Sweden, at least one of which will be conducted in northern Sweden. The project is based on qualitative research methods such as in-depth research interviews, thematic and narrative analysis. Questions of spatial and social injustice, such as gender issues, are significant for the project. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning and carrying out research in collaboration with the PI and co-applicant.

About employment
The employment contract starts in autumn 2019, for the duration of two years full time (up to 20 % could be devoted to departmental duties like teaching). The postdoctoral research fellow will be expected to carry out parts of the work in Umeå and to participate in common departmental activities.

Requirements
In order to be qualified for the position, the person must have achieved a doctoral degree in human geography or equivalent. The main assessment criteria for the appointment are documented research skills and academic track record. Applicants must be able to perform and analyse qualitative research such as interviews, and speak and write Swedish and English fluently. We especially value candidates with documented interest in social and ecological sustainability issues, such as sustainable lifestyles like downshifting and voluntary simplicity. It is also a merit if the candidate is familiar with social and geographical discourses in Sweden, as a context for drivers and outcomes of these lifestyles at individual, local, regional and national scales. In the selection process, value will be given to knowledge of geographical perspectives. Priority should be given to candidates who have completed their doctoral degree no more than three years before the closing date of the application. A candidate who has completed their degree prior to this time period may be taken into consideration if special circumstances exist. Postdoctoral students who will teach or supervise should have relevant education.

We also want you to be flexible in your work; you should take initiative and be able to work independently. We want you to take full responsibility for the task at hand. The work also requires you to collaborate with others within and outside Umeå University

Application
Applications are accepted via system Varbi. The application should contain:
– a complete CV, including full publication list
– a research plan describing the applicant’s research interests in relation to the position (max. 3 pages)
– the applicant’s three most representative publications

Information
For further information on the job position, contact the PI, Marco Eimermann (marco.eimermann@umu.se).