If your academic interests lie at the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and social science, this Research Assistant position at Aarhus University offers a compelling opportunity to contribute to the green transition of food systems in Europe. Based at the Department of Agroecology, Campus Viborg, this role places you in a dynamic, international research environment focused on shaping the future of sustainable agriculture through policy-relevant and interdisciplinary research.
Position Overview
- Job Title: Research Assistant – Socioeconomic Analysis of Agriculture & Food Systems
- Institution: Aarhus University
- Department: Agroecology (Agriculture and Sustainability Section)
- Location: Viborg, Denmark
- Start Date: August 1, 2026 (or shortly after)
- Duration: 12 months
- Working Hours: 37 hours per week
- Application Deadline: June 15, 2026
Research Focus: Driving the Green Transition
This role is embedded in projects that address the social, economic, and political dimensions of sustainable agriculture. The research contributes to:
- Agroecological transitions in farming systems
- Land restoration and sustainable land use
- Development of sustainable agricultural business models
- Policy design and evaluation across European contexts
- Integration of stakeholder perspectives into landscape management
The overarching goal is to support evidence-based decision-making for policymakers at local, national, and international levels.
Key Responsibilities
As a Research Assistant, you will engage in both fieldwork and analytical tasks, including:
- Planning and conducting data collection on private farms
- Reviewing scientific and grey literature
- Organizing and executing interviews, surveys, and focus groups with farmers
- Performing qualitative and quantitative data analysis
- Contributing to research publications and reports
- Presenting findings through written and oral dissemination
- Optional involvement in teaching at bachelor’s and master’s levels
This combination of responsibilities ensures a well-rounded research experience with real-world impact.
Required Qualifications
Candidates should demonstrate:
- A Master’s degree in sociology, anthropology, geography, political science, or a related field with a focus on agriculture and food systems
- Strong understanding of research methodologies
- Fluency in Danish and high-level proficiency in English
- Experience or interest in interdisciplinary collaboration
- A cooperative mindset and commitment to a constructive research environment
Experience with both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods is considered an advantage.
Research Environment and Institutional Strength
The Department of Agroecology at Aarhus University is internationally recognized for its contributions to sustainable solutions in:
- Soil and plant science
- Animal systems
- Environmental sustainability
- Human-environment interactions
The department offers:
- Advanced laboratories and greenhouse facilities
- Field-scale and semi-field research infrastructure
- High-performance computing resources
- A global network of academic collaborators
With approximately 350 staff members, including a strong proportion of scientific researchers, the department provides a rich academic ecosystem for early-career researchers.
Living and Working in Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks among the best countries for quality of life. As a researcher, you will benefit from:
- Subsidized childcare and free education
- Universal healthcare coverage
- Five weeks of paid vacation annually
- Generous parental leave (up to 52 weeks shared)
These conditions create a stable and supportive environment for both professional and personal development.
Selection Procedure:
- Initial shortlisting by the department
- Evaluation by an expert assessment committee
- Notification within approximately 6 weeks after the deadline
Applicants may include references, ensuring referees are contacted well in advance.
Salary and Employment Terms
Employment is governed by Danish academic labor agreements under the Ministry of Science and Innovation. Salary is determined based on:
- Seniority
- Qualifications
- Collective bargaining agreements
Why This Role Is Worth Considering
This position is particularly suited for candidates seeking to:
- Build expertise in socioeconomic research within agriculture
- Contribute to policy-relevant sustainability transitions
- Gain experience in European research projects
- Work closely with stakeholders, including farmers and policymakers
It combines academic rigor with applied research, offering a strong foundation for future doctoral studies or policy-oriented careers.
Application Process
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree certificates
- Complete publication list
- Statement of future research plans
- Teaching portfolio (if applicable)
- Applications must be submitted through APPLY NOW
- Application Deadline: June 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a PhD position?
No, this is a Research Assistant position, though it can serve as a strong stepping stone toward a PhD.
2. Do I need to speak Danish?
Yes, fluency in Danish is required, as fieldwork involves direct interaction with local farmers.
3. Is the position open to international applicants?
Yes, but applicants must meet the language requirements and be eligible to work in Denmark.
4. What type of research methods will I use?
You will work with mixed methods, including qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis.
5. Can I teach during this position?
Yes, there is an optional teaching component at bachelor’s and master’s levels.
6. How competitive is the selection process?
The process includes shortlisting and expert evaluation, making it moderately competitive.
7. What is the duration of the contract?
The position is 12 months full-time.
8. When will I know if I am shortlisted?
You will be notified within six weeks after the application deadline.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.