Fully Funded PhD in Clinical Science at the University of Bergen, Norway (2026)

The University of Bergen (UiB), Norway, is offering a fully funded PhD position in Clinical Science under the Department of Clinical Science (K2) at the Faculty of Medicine. This is an opportunity for candidates interested in research related to genetics, obesity, and early-life health.

This PhD is a three-year, full-time research position based in Bergen, Norway. It is suitable for candidates who want to work on advanced health research and contribute to understanding important health issues such as obesity and metabolic diseases.

Key Details

Here is a brief overview of the PhD position:

• Position: PhD Research Fellow
• Field: Clinical Science / Genetics / Epidemiology
• University: University of Bergen
• Location: Bergen, Norway
• Duration: 3 years (Full-Time)
• Salary: NOK 570,000 per year
• Application Deadline: 11–12 May 2026

The position provides financial support along with an opportunity to work in a leading research environment.

About the Research Project

This PhD position is part of major research projects focusing on:

• Genetic causes of appetite and obesity in early life
• Developmental patterns and risk factors for obesity and diabetes

The research will be conducted at the Mohn Research Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine (PRECISE-DIA). The center uses large datasets, including data from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa).

Main Research Objectives

The research aims to:

• Understand how genetics and environmental factors influence early development
• Study how appetite and body weight develop over time
• Identify genetic factors associated with obesity and eating behavior
• Investigate how genes inherited from parents may influence health
• Collaborate with international research teams

The project aims to improve knowledge about early-life health and long-term disease risks.

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will participate in a range of research activities. Your main responsibilities may include:

• Analyzing large genetic and health datasets, including GWAS and NGS data
• Studying early-life development and disease risks
• Working with international research collaborators
• Participating in a multidisciplinary team involving genetics, medicine, bioinformatics, and statistics
• Taking part in research exchange programs abroad

This position will help you develop strong research, analytical, and scientific skills.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this PhD position, candidates are expected to meet the following requirements.

Required Qualifications

• A master’s degree in molecular genetics, medicine, bioinformatics, epidemiology, or a related field
• Strong interest in research and data analysis
• Ability to work independently as well as as part of a team
• Good written and spoken English skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with large datasets or omics data
• Programming or data-analysis skills
• Previous research experience or experience with international collaboration

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

Required Documents

Applicants should submit a complete application. The required documents may include:

• A statement describing research interests and motivation
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Proof of English-language proficiency
• List of publications, if available
• Copies of previous scientific work
• Contact details of two referees

Additional Requirements for International Applicants

International applicants may also need to provide:

• Certified translations of documents that are not in English or Norwegian
• Documentation or an assessment from HK-dir (Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills), where required

Applicants should carefully prepare all documents and submit the complete application before the deadline.

Benefits

This PhD position offers several benefits:

1. Competitive Salary

The position offers an annual salary of NOK 570,000, which may be adjusted according to qualifications and applicable employment conditions.

2. Research Facilities

Candidates will have access to modern research facilities, advanced equipment, and large research datasets.

3. International Collaboration

The position provides opportunities to work with international research teams and participate in international research projects.

4. Research Exchange

There may be opportunities to participate in research and academic exchange activities abroad.

5. Pension Benefits

The position includes membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, subject to applicable rules.

6. Career Development

Candidates will work in an academic research environment that can support their scientific and professional development.

PhD Programme Requirements

If selected, the candidate will be required to enroll in the University of Bergen’s PhD programme.

The candidate is also expected to submit a detailed research project plan within three months of starting the position, according to the programme requirements.

How to Apply?

To apply for this PhD position, follow these steps:

1. Carefully prepare all required documents.
2. Visit the official University of Bergen recruitment portal.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload the required documents.
5. Submit the application before the stated deadline.

If your degree was obtained outside Norway, make sure you begin any required HK-dir assessment or documentation process as early as possible.

For additional information about the position, applicants can contact Professor Stefan Johansen, as stated in the vacancy information.

Why Consider This PhD Opportunity?

This PhD position provides an opportunity to work on important health-related research. By joining the project, you can:

• Gain research experience in genetics and medical science
• Work with advanced datasets and modern research methods
• Collaborate with international researchers and experts
• Contribute to research addressing real-world health challenges

Norway is also known for its strong research infrastructure, high standard of living, and international academic environment.

Apply Here

Application Link:
https://www.unipositions.com/go/fully-funded-phd-position-at-the-department-of-clinical-science

 

Apply Here