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Fully Funded PhD in Mathematics Education in Norway 2026

The University of Agder in Norway is offering an excellent opportunity for students who want to pursue a PhD in Mathematics Education. The university has announced up to three fully funded PhD Research Fellowships at its Kristiansand campus. These positions are ideal for candidates who are passionate about research and want to contribute to improving mathematics education.

This program is part of a strong academic and research environment within the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Selected candidates will work with experienced researchers and become part of active research groups. If you are interested in studying in Europe with financial support, this opportunity is worth considering.

About the PhD Fellowship

The PhD Research Fellowship is a full-time position where candidates will work on research projects related to mathematics education. The program is designed to develop research skills, critical thinking, and academic expertise.

Here are the key details:

Position: PhD Research Fellow (3 positions available)
Field: Mathematics Education
Location: Kristiansand, Norway
Duration: 3 years (full-time)
Salary: NOK 550,800 per year
Application Deadline: May 12, 2026
Starting Date: Flexible / To be agreed upon

This fellowship offers both financial support and the opportunity to gain valuable research experience in a respected academic environment.

Research Areas

Applicants will need to choose one of the three research projects and submit a research proposal based on their selected topic. Each project focuses on a different aspect of improving mathematics education.

1. Productive Struggle and Ambiguity in Mathematics Learning

This research area studies how challenges, uncertainty, and even failure can help students learn mathematics more effectively. It explores how students deal with difficult problems and how this process can improve their mathematical understanding.

2. Recruitment into STEM Teacher Education

This project focuses on the decline in the number of students choosing teaching careers in STEM subjects, particularly for grades 8 to 13. The goal is to identify the reasons behind this trend and develop strategies to encourage more students to become STEM teachers.

3. Developing Number Sense in Primary Education

This project is based on Davydov’s educational approach. It examines how young students develop mathematical understanding through measurement and comparison. The goal is to strengthen fundamental mathematical skills during the early stages of education.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this PhD fellowship, candidates must meet certain requirements.

Required Qualifications

A Master’s degree in Mathematics Education or a related field
A strong academic record, generally equivalent to a B grade or higher
Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 92
Ability to prepare and submit a research proposal of up to 5 pages

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications may also be beneficial:

Knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language
Teaching experience at school or university level
Research experience, including qualitative or quantitative research methods

Meeting the required criteria is essential, while preferred qualifications can strengthen an applicant’s profile.

Required Documents

Applicants will need to submit a complete set of documents. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

You will generally need the following:

A Motivation Letter explaining your interest in the program
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
A copy of your Master’s thesis
A detailed research proposal related to one of the available projects
Reference or recommendation letters
An updated CV or résumé
A list of publications, if available

Make sure that all documents are accurate, clear, and submitted before the specified deadline.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The PhD program provides selected candidates with several benefits.

1. Competitive Salary

PhD Research Fellows receive an annual salary of NOK 550,800, which can help support living expenses in Norway.

2. Research Facilities

Candidates will have access to modern research facilities, libraries, academic resources, and other tools needed for their research.

3. Research Community

You will become part of a strong research environment, including the MERGA research centre, and have opportunities to engage with researchers working in mathematics education.

4. International Collaboration

The university has connections with institutions and researchers internationally, providing opportunities to collaborate with researchers from different countries and academic backgrounds.

5. Career Development

The program can help candidates develop academic and professional skills and prepare for future careers in research, teaching, education, or policy-related fields.

Why Consider This PhD Fellowship?

This PhD fellowship is an opportunity for students who want to contribute to research and development in the field of education. Mathematics is an important subject, and improving the way it is taught and learned can contribute to better educational outcomes.

By joining this program, you can:

Work on meaningful research projects
Gain international academic experience
Build a professional research network
Contribute to addressing real-world challenges in STEM education
Develop advanced research and academic skills

Norway is also known for its high quality of life, safe environment, and strong education system, making it an attractive destination for international students and researchers.

How to Apply?

Applicants can follow these steps to apply for the PhD Research Fellowship.

Step 1: Choose a Research Project

Select one of the three available research areas and prepare your research proposal according to the selected topic.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Collect all required documents, including your CV, academic transcripts, degree certificates, Master’s thesis, motivation letter, references, and research proposal.

Step 3: Apply Online

Submit your application through the official online application portal of the University of Agder.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Make sure your application is complete and submitted before May 12, 2026.

Step 5: Wait for the Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment, interviews, or other stages of the selection process.

Application Link

Apply Here:
https://www.unipositions.com/go/phd-research-fellowships-in-mathematics-2026-norway