1-2 project assistantants at the Psychological Defence Research Institute at the Psychological Defence Research Institute

The Psychological Defence Research Institute is now recruiting 1-2 research assistant for a fixed-term position of 6 months.

About the workplace
The Psychological Defence Research Institute was established in 2022 at Lund University’s Department of Communication, with support from the Swedish Psychological Defence Agency (MPF). The purpose of psychological defence is to protect the open and democratic society, freedom of opinion, Sweden’s fundamental liberties, and ultimately our independence.

The Institute conducts research that enhances society’s capacity to detect and counter the effects of malign information influence operations and other false or misleading information directed at Sweden, with the purpose of shaping decision-making, perceptions, or behaviour.

We offer
Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get specific benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on our website under Work for us.

Duties and responsibilities
As a research assistant, you will take part in various research projects within the field of psychological defence. Our projects require prior knowledge of relevant academic fields, policy issues and applied research methods such as open-source collection and analysis. Knowledge of national, EU, and NATO structures is desirable.

Your tasks will include, among other things:

Preparing literature reviews and other texts in support of publications such as research reports and academic articles.

Using both academic and open sources/methods to gather data and analyse empirical material from sources such as authorities, media, social media, research publications, and government reports.

Qualifications
Required qualifications:

• A master’s degree in a relevant subject (e.g. Strategic Communication, Political Science, or Security Studies), or a bachelor’s degree plus at least three years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience in analytical work in disinformation/influence operations or related areas.
• Experience in applying diverse research methods, including policy analysis and qualitative interviews.

Flexible and self-reliant, with the ability to take on varied tasks and complete them to a high standard. Proven experience of conducting independent research under time constraints. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Excellent proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Additional qualifications:

Demonstrated interest in developing a research profile, for example through doctoral studies or work in policy-oriented organisations. Experience collaborating with public authorities, for instance through employment in or engagement with public administration or equivalent bodies. Proficiency in languages relevant to the research field, in addition to English. Background in areas such as defence, information security or information influence. Experience in data collection and report writing.

Terms of employment
The position is a fixed-term employment for 6 months, full time (100 %). Starting date as soon as possible by agreement.

How to apply
Applications are submitted via Lund University’s digital recruitment system. Please include:

a personal statement (maximum 2 pages) a CV, including a list of publications if applicable (maximum 3 pages)

Lund University applies individual salary setting. Please include your salary expectations in the application.