PhD & Postdoc Funded Positions in Sustainability Science at Lund University in Sweden
If you are planning to pursue an academic career in Europe, Sweden continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for international researchers. Among the country’s leading institutions, Lund University consistently ranks among the world’s best universities, offering exceptional opportunities for doctoral candidates and early-career researchers.
For the 2027 intake, Lund University has announced two outstanding research opportunities. The first is a fully funded PhD in Sustainability Science hosted by the Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS). The second is a Postdoctoral Researcher position focusing on biodiversity, sustainability reporting, and AI-based analytical methods within the School of Economics and Management.
Both opportunities provide competitive salaries, excellent research environments, international collaboration, and the chance to contribute to globally significant sustainability challenges. Whether you are completing your master’s degree or already hold a PhD, these positions offer an excellent pathway to build an international research career.
Lund University continues to demonstrate why it is one of Europe’s leading destinations for research and higher education. The 2027 recruitment cycle presents two exceptional opportunities for ambitious scholars who wish to contribute to globally relevant sustainability research.
The PhD in Sustainability Science offers an ideal pathway for graduates seeking advanced interdisciplinary research training, while the Postdoctoral Researcher position provides early-career academics with the chance to establish an independent research profile in biodiversity, sustainability reporting, and AI-supported business research.
Both appointments combine competitive salaries, world-class supervision, international collaboration, and access to one of Sweden’s most respected academic environments. If your academic interests align with sustainability, climate policy, finance, biodiversity, or responsible business practices, these opportunities deserve serious consideration.
Preparing a thoughtful application, demonstrating clear research potential, and carefully following the application instructions can significantly improve your chances of joining Lund University’s globally recognized research community.
About Lund University
Founded in 1666, Lund University is one of Northern Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It is consistently ranked among the world’s leading higher education institutions and is recognized for excellence in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary education.
Today, the university is home to approximately:
- 46,000 students
- 8,500 academic and professional staff
- Campuses in Lund, Malmö, and Helsingborg
Researchers from around the world choose Lund University because of its collaborative academic culture, generous research support, modern facilities, and strong international partnerships.
The university’s mission extends beyond education. It focuses on understanding global challenges while developing practical solutions that improve society and contribute to a sustainable future.
Lund University Scholarships 2027 Overview
| Institution | Lund University |
|---|---|
| Country | Sweden |
| Available Positions | PhD & Postdoctoral Research |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Paid Employment) |
| Study Level | Doctoral & Postdoctoral |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Location | Lund, Sweden |
| Salary | Monthly Salary |
| Application Mode | Online |
| International Applicants | Eligible |
| Fields | Sustainability Science, Business Administration, Biodiversity, Finance, Climate, Energy |
| Deadline | 28–31 August 2026 |
Fully Funded PhD in Sustainability Science
One of the most exciting opportunities announced by Lund University is a four-year fully funded PhD in Sustainability Science offered through the Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS).
Unlike many doctoral programs where students must secure external funding, this position is a paid university employment. Successful applicants receive a monthly salary throughout the doctoral studies while focusing primarily on research.
The doctoral programme comprises 240 ECTS credits, equivalent to four years of full-time study, and concludes with the public defence of a doctoral thesis.
Depending on departmental needs, doctoral candidates may also participate in teaching activities for up to 20% of their working hours. When teaching responsibilities are assigned, the employment period is extended accordingly.
Candidates are expected to work full-time on campus in Lund and become active members of the LUCSUS research community.
About LUCSUS
The Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS) is internationally recognized for interdisciplinary sustainability research.
Researchers investigate some of today’s most pressing global issues, including:
- Climate change adaptation
- Environmental governance
- Urban transformation
- Energy justice
- Sustainable energy systems
- Biodiversity conservation
- Natural resource management
- Land-use governance
LUCSUS collaborates extensively with researchers, governments, international organizations, NGOs, and industry partners worldwide.
English serves as the working language for both teaching and research, making the programme highly accessible to international applicants.
Research Project: Finance and the Future of Energy Transitions
The successful PhD candidate will join a research project funded by FORMAS, one of Sweden’s major research funding agencies.
The project is titled:
“(Dis)orderly Transitions: The Financial Sector’s Role in Shaping Just Energy Transitions.”
The research builds on discussions emerging from the COP28 climate agreement, where countries emphasized that moving away from fossil fuels should occur in a just, orderly, and equitable manner.
Rather than accepting this concept at face value, researchers will critically examine how the financial sector influences energy transitions.
Key research questions include:
- How do financial institutions shape climate transitions?
- How are investment risks distributed?
- Who benefits from financial transition strategies?
- Who may be disadvantaged?
- How do financial instruments influence future energy systems?
The project combines insights from:
- Political economy
- Economic sociology
- Sustainability science
- Energy governance
- Climate policy
This interdisciplinary approach offers doctoral researchers the opportunity to contribute to a rapidly growing field with significant international relevance.
Expected Research Activities
The selected PhD student will undertake independent qualitative research focusing primarily on financial actors across Scandinavia.
Research activities may include:
- Conducting in-depth interviews with financial professionals
- Participant observation at conferences and industry events
- Policy document analysis
- Studying transition bonds
- Examining green taxonomies
- Investigating financial governance frameworks
- Mapping stakeholder interactions
- Analysing investment decision-making
Candidates will work closely with researchers based in both Sweden and Canada, gaining valuable international research experience.
What Makes This PhD Unique?
Several aspects distinguish this opportunity from traditional doctoral programmes.
First, it addresses one of the world’s most urgent policy challenges: financing the transition away from fossil fuels.
Second, the research integrates social sciences with sustainability studies, allowing candidates to investigate real-world policy issues from multiple perspectives.
Third, collaboration with international researchers provides access to broader academic networks and future career opportunities.
Finally, because the project involves extensive interaction with policymakers, financial institutions, and sustainability experts, doctoral candidates gain practical experience beyond academia.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the general admission requirements for third-cycle studies under Swedish higher education regulations.
Candidates should have completed one of the following before 1 January 2027:
- A Master’s degree (second-cycle qualification), or
- At least 240 ECTS credits, including a minimum of 60 ECTS at the Master’s level, or
- An internationally recognized equivalent qualification.
Applicants must also demonstrate strong academic potential and the ability to successfully complete doctoral-level research.
Required Qualifications
Lund University is looking for highly motivated researchers with strong academic backgrounds and a genuine interest in sustainability.
Ideal applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree in Sustainability Science, Human Geography, Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology, Science and Technology Studies, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrated interest in critical social science approaches.
- Previous academic work related to political economy, economic sociology, or science and technology studies.
- Strong interest in climate change, energy systems, or sustainable finance.
- Experience conducting qualitative research.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to international interdisciplinary research teams.
- Enthusiasm for teaching and participating in departmental activities.
Preferred Qualifications
Although not mandatory, several additional qualifications will strengthen an application.
These include:
- Knowledge of Swedish or another Scandinavian language.
- Familiarity with social constructivist or relational research approaches.
- Experience using qualitative methods such as interviews, discourse analysis, and stakeholder mapping.
- Experience collaborating with policymakers, NGOs, investors, or public institutions.
- Scientific publications or conference presentations.
Importantly, Lund University emphasizes that applicants are not expected to meet every preferred qualification. Candidates who satisfy the core requirements and demonstrate strong research potential are encouraged to apply.
Why This PhD Is Worth Considering
This doctoral position offers much more than a fully funded education.
Successful candidates receive:
- Full-time university employment
- Competitive monthly salary
- Four years of funded doctoral research
- Access to internationally recognized supervisors
- Collaboration with Swedish and Canadian researchers
- Teaching experience
- Modern office space and research facilities
- Extensive professional networking opportunities
- Strong preparation for academic and policy careers
- Experience working on globally significant sustainability challenges
For students interested in climate policy, sustainable finance, energy transitions, and interdisciplinary social science research, this programme represents one of the strongest doctoral opportunities currently available in Europe.
4. Master’s Thesis
Candidates should upload their Master’s thesis corresponding to at least 30 ECTS credits.
If applicable, applicants may instead submit:
- A 15-credit Master’s thesis
- Plus a 15-credit Bachelor’s thesis
5. Professional References
Provide the names and contact information of three professional referees.
Reference letters are not required during the first stage of the recruitment process.
PhD Employment Conditions
Unlike many doctoral programs around the world, this position is a formal employment at Lund University.
Successful applicants receive:
- Monthly salary
- Full-time employment
- Four-year funded appointment
- Paid vacation
- Access to university facilities
- Professional supervision
- Office space
- Research support
- International collaboration opportunities
Doctoral candidates may also teach up to 20% of their working time. If teaching duties are assigned, the overall employment period is extended accordingly.
How to Apply for the Lund University PhD in Sustainability Science
Lund University accepts applications exclusively through its official online recruitment portal. Applicants should carefully prepare all required documents before the deadline, as incomplete applications are generally not considered.
The application should be written in English, with every document clearly organized and professionally formatted. Because this is a highly competitive doctoral position, your application should demonstrate not only your academic achievements but also your motivation, research potential, and suitability for the specific project.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must upload the following documents during the online application process.
1. Cover Letter
Prepare a cover letter in English of no more than 2,000 words.
The letter should include:
- A brief introduction about yourself
- Your academic background
- Your motivation for pursuing a PhD
- Why you want to join this particular research project
- How your previous education and experience match the required qualifications
- Your future research interests within the project’s broader objectives
- How your work could contribute to the research team
A well-written cover letter is often one of the most influential parts of a successful application.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Submit a professional CV in English with a maximum length of two pages.
Your CV should include:
- Educational background
- Research experience
- Relevant work experience
- Publications (if applicable)
- Conference presentations
- Awards and scholarships
- Technical and research skills
- Language proficiency
3. Academic Certificates
Applicants must provide official copies of:
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Master’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Grade certificates
Equivalent international qualifications are also accepted.
Important PhD Dates
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD in Sustainability Science |
| Employment Type | Temporary Full-Time |
| Funding | Monthly Salary |
| Start Date | 1 January 2027 |
| Duration | Four Years |
| Location | Lund, Sweden |
| Application Deadline | 28 August 2026 |
| Reference Number | PA2026/2232 APPLY NOW |
Postdoctoral Research Position at Lund University
In addition to the fully funded PhD position, Lund University has announced an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers through a Postdoctoral Researcher position at the School of Economics and Management. The appointment focuses on Business Administration with specialization in:
- Biodiversity
- Sustainability Reporting
- Organizational Learning
- AI-Based Analytical Methods
This position is ideal for researchers who recently completed their doctorate and wish to develop an independent research profile within one of Europe’s leading business schools.
About the Lund University School of Economics and Management
The School of Economics and Management is one of the university’s eight faculties and enjoys an outstanding international reputation.
It has earned the prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation, a distinction held by only a small percentage of business schools worldwide.
The school is accredited by:
- EQUIS
- AACSB
- AMBA
This recognition reflects its commitment to world-class teaching, research excellence, and international collaboration.
More than:
- 4,000 students
- 450 researchers and faculty members
contribute to a vibrant academic community focused on economics, management, entrepreneurship, accounting, innovation, marketing, organizational studies, and sustainability.
About the Postdoctoral Position
The Department of Business Administration is seeking an ambitious researcher to spend two years developing an independent research agenda while working in a multidisciplinary academic environment.
Unlike many research assistant positions, this appointment allows the successful candidate to lead their own research initiatives while collaborating with internationally recognized scholars.
Researchers are encouraged to explore innovative ideas that strengthen the department’s expertise in sustainability and business research.
The position is based full-time in Lund, Sweden.
Regular on-campus participation is expected to support collaboration, seminars, workshops, and teaching activities.
Research Focus
The selected postdoctoral researcher will investigate topics related to:
- Biodiversity reporting
- Sustainability reporting
- Corporate responsibility
- Organizational learning
- Text analysis
- Artificial Intelligence
- ESG reporting
- Business sustainability
Researchers may combine qualitative and quantitative methods while applying AI-supported analytical tools to study sustainability disclosures and organizational practices.
Main Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Conduct independent research
- Publish in high-quality academic journals
- Develop new research projects
- Participate in departmental seminars
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams
- Supervise students when appropriate
- Teach up to 20% of working hours
- Complete higher education pedagogical training
This combination of research and teaching creates an excellent platform for long-term academic career development.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold:
- A doctoral degree in Business Administration or a closely related discipline.
Priority will normally be given to candidates who obtained their PhD within the last three years before the application deadline.
Earlier doctoral graduates may still be considered under special circumstances, including:
- Parental leave
- Long-term illness
- Military service
- Trade union responsibilities
- Comparable career interruptions
Required Qualifications
Applicants should demonstrate strong expertise in several areas.
Essential qualifications include:
- PhD in Business Administration or a related discipline
- Strong research record
- Expertise in text analysis
- Experience using AI-based analytical methods
- Good teaching ability
- Excellent English communication skills
- Scientific competence relevant to sustainability research
Preferred Qualifications
Although not mandatory, applicants with the following experience will have a stronger profile:
- International academic experience
- Research conducted outside Sweden
- Scientific awards
- Publications in leading journals
- Experience with AI-assisted research
- Collaboration with industry
- Engagement with policymakers
- Experience outside academia
Assessment Criteria
Selection will focus primarily on research excellence.
Reviewers will evaluate:
- Scientific quality
- Research potential
- Teaching ability
- Publication record
- Feasibility of the research plan
- Personal suitability
- Ability to strengthen the department’s research profile
- Capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration
Applicants with innovative research ideas and evidence of independent scholarship will be particularly competitive.
Employment Benefits
The successful postdoctoral researcher will receive:
- Full-time paid employment
- Competitive Swedish salary
- Two-year research appointment
- Modern research facilities
- Access to international collaborations
- Paid vacation
- Occupational pension
- Wellness reimbursement
- Paid wellness hour
- Professional development opportunities
- Higher education pedagogical training
Swedish universities are widely recognized for offering excellent working conditions, making this an attractive opportunity for researchers from around the world.
Important Postdoctoral Dates
| Item | Details |
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Duration | Two Years |
| Employment | Full-Time |
| Location | Lund, Sweden |
| Salary | Monthly Salary |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
| Reference Number | PA2026/2015 |
Application Documents:
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Personal motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Plan
- List of Publications
- Degree Certificates
- Contact details of two referees
- APPLY NOW
All submitted documents should be officially authenticated where required. APPLY NOW
Living in Lund, Sweden
Lund is one of Sweden’s most popular university cities and is known for its welcoming international community.
Despite its historic character, Lund offers a modern lifestyle with excellent public transportation, cycling infrastructure, libraries, research centers, and cultural activities.
Researchers living in Lund benefit from:
- Safe and student-friendly neighborhoods
- Reliable public transportation
- Excellent healthcare system
- High quality of life
- Strong work-life balance
- Access to Copenhagen Airport within about one hour
- Vibrant international academic community
Sweden consistently ranks among the world’s happiest and most innovative countries, making it an attractive destination for international scholars.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Both positions can significantly strengthen your long-term academic and professional career.
PhD Graduates
Graduates from the Sustainability Science program often pursue careers as:
- University Lecturer
- Research Scientist
- Sustainability Consultant
- Climate Policy Advisor
- ESG Analyst
- Environmental Researcher
- Government Policy Expert
- International Development Specialist
- NGO Program Manager
- Energy Transition Consultant
Postdoctoral Researchers
Successful postdoctoral researchers may continue as:
- Assistant Professor
- Associate Researcher
- Senior Research Fellow
- Sustainability Reporting Specialist
- ESG Consultant
- Corporate Sustainability Advisor
- Business Analytics Researcher
- AI Research Specialist
- Academic Project Leader
- Research Director
Expert Tips for a Strong Application
Competition for positions at Lund University is high. A carefully prepared application can significantly improve your chances of being shortlisted.
Consider the following recommendations:
Tailor Your Cover Letter
Avoid sending a generic motivation letter. Clearly explain why you are interested in this specific project and how your experience aligns with its objectives.
Demonstrate Research Potential
Highlight your:
- Master’s thesis
- PhD research (for postdoctoral applicants)
- Publications
- Conference presentations
- Research assistantships
- Independent projects
Evidence of research independence is highly valued.
Connect Your Experience to the Project
Show how your previous work relates directly to:
- Sustainability
- Climate policy
- Finance
- Biodiversity
- ESG reporting
- Political economy
- AI-assisted research
- Qualitative or quantitative methods
The closer your experience matches the advertised project, the stronger your application.
Showcase International Experience
If you have participated in:
- Exchange programs
- International conferences
- Cross-border research collaborations
- International internships
be sure to highlight these experiences.
Prepare a Professional CV
Keep your CV clear and concise.
Organize sections logically, emphasizing:
- Education
- Research
- Publications
- Awards
- Grants
- Technical skills
- Languages
- Teaching experience
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Many qualified applicants are rejected because of avoidable mistakes.
Before submitting your application, make sure you have not:
- Submitted incomplete documents
- Exceeded the word limit for your cover letter
- Uploaded unofficial academic records when official copies are required
- Used a generic CV for multiple universities
- Ignored the advertised research focus
- Forgotten to include references
- Missed the application deadline
Review every document carefully before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the PhD position fully funded?
Yes. The PhD is a fully funded employment position at Lund University. Doctoral candidates receive a monthly salary throughout the four-year program.
2. Do international students qualify?
Yes. Applicants from all countries are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the academic and language requirements.
3. Is IELTS required?
The advertisement specifies excellent written and spoken English but does not explicitly require IELTS. Applicants should follow the university’s official language requirements during the application process.
4. Are tuition fees charged?
No. These are paid employment positions rather than self-funded study programs.
5. What is the duration of the PhD?
The doctoral program lasts four years of full-time study, with possible extensions if teaching responsibilities are assigned.
6. What is the duration of the postdoctoral appointment?
The postdoctoral position is a full-time appointment lasting two years.
7. Can applicants from any academic background apply?
Applicants should hold degrees closely related to the advertised research fields. Relevant interdisciplinary backgrounds are welcomed.
8. Is Swedish language proficiency mandatory?
No. English is the primary working language. Knowledge of Swedish or another Scandinavian language is considered an advantage but is not required for the PhD position.
9. Will researchers have teaching responsibilities?
Yes. Both positions may include teaching duties of up to 20% of working hours.
10. Where will the research be conducted?
Both positions are based in Lund, Sweden, with researchers expected to participate actively in on-campus activities.
11. Is previous research experience important?
Yes. Demonstrated research experience significantly strengthens an application, particularly through theses, publications, fieldwork, or conference presentations.
12. Can recent graduates apply?
Yes. Master’s graduates may apply for the PhD position, while applicants for the postdoctoral position must already hold a doctoral degree or obtain one before appointment.
13. Are publications mandatory?
No. Publications are advantageous but are not mandatory for every applicant.
14. What research methods are preferred?
The advertised positions value experience with qualitative methods, text analysis, interviews, stakeholder engagement, document analysis, and AI-based analytical techniques where relevant.
15. When are the application deadlines?
- PhD in Sustainability Science: 28 August 2026: https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:952097/type:job/where:4/apply:1
- Postdoctoral Research Position: 31 August 2026: https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:945089/type:job/where:4/apply:1
Applicants should submit all required documents well before the deadlines to avoid technical issues.
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