Doctoral student for Climate Risk and Adaptation in the Middle East - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Climate adaptation is fundamental for reducing vulnerability to climate change impacts, however the most recent Climate Report (IPCC AR6) found that we are not adapting fast enough. The Middle East region is characterized by harsh climates, frequent droughts, water scarcity, flash floods and dust storms, however the region has received limited research attention when it comes to climate adaptation. Parts of the region are also characterised by protracted conflicts, large refugee populations and weak governance structures, along with reliance on, and production of, fossil fuels. Due to this political complexity and high levels of human vulnerability, it is crucial to unpack and understand the region’s challenges relating to exposure of climate hazards, along with the potential adaptation options at different scales.

Work duties

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

This project aims to fill knowledge gaps relating to climate vulnerability and adaptation in the Middle East, by using physical geography methods (e.g. Geographical Information Systems, remote sensing) along with approaches from relevant disciplines to map climate vulnerability and study existing adaptation strategies in the region, with the long-term goal of identifying suitable adaptation strategies for the future. 

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Physical Geography and Ecosystem Science if he or she has:

• a second-cycle degree of at least 60 credits or equivalent with physical geography and ecosystem science or closely related subjects (such as geomatics, environmental science, geography) as the main subject (Master’s degree or equivalent), including a degree project or equivalent of at least 30 credits.
• good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional requirements:

• high-quality research work (e.g. Master/Bachelor thesis) evidencing substantial potential as a researcher within the physical geography field.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• experience with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) 

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems. Written and oral communication skills. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• Level of experience with spatial analysis and earth observation.
• Level of experience with interdisciplinary research integrating biophysical, socio-economic and political aspects.
• Level of experience with research on climate exposure and adaptation, including mapping of climate risks.
• Level of knowledge about the Middle East region.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Doctoral studentships will be four years fulltime studies. Teaching and other department work may prolong the employment corresponding, maximum 5 years ( i o w 20%). Doctoral stidentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Timelimetid employment four years due HF 5 kap 7 §.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

Welcome to apply.