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University: University of Oslo
Country: Norway
Deadline: 2026-05-04
Fields: Psychology, Genetics, Sociology, Epidemiology, Economics
Are you passionate about unraveling how genetics and social environments shape mental health and social outcomes? If you are eager to advance your research career in an interdisciplinary, international setting, the PROMENTA Research Center at the University of Oslo invites you to apply for a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship in mental health research.
About the University or Research Institute
The University of Oslo (UiO) stands as Norway’s oldest and most esteemed institution of higher education, consistently ranked among the top universities in Europe. Located in the vibrant capital city of Oslo, UiO is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and fostering an inclusive, diverse scholarly community. The Department of Psychology, home to the PROMENTA Research Center, offers a stimulating environment where interdisciplinary research thrives, drawing on expertise from psychology, genetics, sociology, and related fields.
Norway itself is celebrated for its high quality of life, robust public health system, and progressive social policies. The country offers an exceptional work-life balance, generous welfare benefits, and a strong emphasis on equality, inclusion, and personal well-being. Living in Oslo provides access to a rich cultural scene, beautiful natural landscapes, and a welcoming international community.
Research Topic and Significance
The fellowship is part of the “Genomics and Life Paths” project, a groundbreaking initiative funded by the Swedish Research Council. This project aims to deepen our understanding of how genetic predispositions and environmental factors interact to shape mental health, social, and economic inequalities. By leveraging large-scale genotype data and comprehensive register and survey data from across Europe, the research seeks to unravel the complex mechanisms behind outcomes such as mental health status, educational attainment, income, political participation, and social trust.
This research is particularly significant in today’s context, where mental health challenges and social disparities are pressing global concerns. Integrating genomic data with social science approaches has the potential to inform more effective interventions, policies, and support systems, ultimately contributing to healthier, more equitable societies.
Project Details
The postdoctoral fellowship will be based at the PROMENTA Research Center within the Department of Psychology at the University of Oslo. PROMENTA is internationally recognized for its interdisciplinary research on mental health and well-being, spanning genetics, biology, social environments, and policy.
The successful fellow will join the GeoGen workgroup, led by Professor Eivind Ystrøm. This team specializes in exploring the interplay between genetic and contextual factors within families, schools, and broader societal settings, utilizing unique Norwegian population-based registries and genotyped family cohorts. Collaboration is a cornerstone of this project, with close ties to research nodes at Uppsala University (Sweden) and Amsterdam UMC (Netherlands). Fellows will have the opportunity to spend time at partner institutions, fostering international and interdisciplinary exchange.
The project’s objectives include conducting comprehensive genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on life-course outcomes, enhancing the integration of genomic data into social science research, and building a world-class research community at the intersection of genetics and social sciences.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should possess a PhD (or equivalent, 120 ECTS) in psychology, genetics, political science, sociology, epidemiology, economics, demography, or related disciplines. Candidates must have submitted their PhD thesis for evaluation by the closing date and be approved by the time of appointment.
Essential qualifications include:
– Expertise in molecular genetic data analyses (e.g., GWAS, polygenic scores, GCTA)
– Proficient oral and written communication skills in English
– A strong research plan aligned with the project’s objectives, demonstrated in a one-page motivation letter
Preferred qualifications (advantageous, but not required):
– Motivation for teaching within the Department of Psychology
– Interest in integrating mental health, social science, and genetics research
– A publication record in genetics of mental health, education, or demographic outcomes
– Experience with R, Python, Julia, or similar programming languages
– Familiarity with register or big data, multilevel or structural equation modeling, and geocode data
Personal qualities sought include the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams, a structured and reliable work style, and a commitment to meeting deadlines.
Application Process
The application deadline is 2026-05-04.
All applications must be submitted via the official portal. Please refer to the original advertisement for full application instructions and to access the application portal:
Your application should include:
– Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
– Complete CV
– Certified copies of academic diplomas and certificates (with English translations if not in English or a Scandinavian language)
– Copies of relevant publications
– Names and contact details for two references (one must be a PhD supervisor)
Conclusion
This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of genetics, social science, and mental health, while developing your academic career within a supportive, prestigious European university. If you are motivated to make a meaningful impact on our understanding of social and health inequalities, we encourage you to apply. Stay tuned for similar opportunities in the field by following updates from the University of Oslo and PROMENTA Research Center.
Questions & Answers
Question: What makes the University of Oslo an attractive destination for postdoctoral researchers?
The University of Oslo offers a vibrant academic environment, excellent research infrastructure, strong international collaborations, and comprehensive welfare benefits. Its location in Norway provides a high quality of life, work-life balance, and a welcoming, inclusive culture.
Question: What kind of research training and support can fellows expect at PROMENTA?
Fellows will benefit from interdisciplinary mentorship, access to large-scale genetic and register data, training in advanced research methods, and opportunities for teaching and international collaboration.
Question: Is experience with genetic data analysis mandatory for this position?
Yes, candidates must demonstrate skills in molecular genetic data analyses such as GWAS, polygenic scores, and GCTA to be eligible for the fellowship.
Question: Are there opportunities for career development and networking?
Absolutely. The position includes collaboration with leading experts across Europe, participation in international research networks, and access to professional development resources at the University of Oslo.
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