Summary
The University of Agder (UiA), Faculty of Engineering and Science, invites applications for a fixed-term, 100% position as a PhD Research Fellow in Civil and Structural Engineering. This three-year position is based at Campus Grimstad and is affiliated with the EU-funded project ‘HelioSea,’ which focuses on developing innovative interconnected floating solar arrays for offshore environments.
Position Details
| Designation | PhD Research Fellow |
| Research Area | Civil and Structural Engineering / Floating Solar Arrays |
| Location | Campus Grimstad, Norway |
| Duration | 3 years (Fixed-term) |
| Salary | NOK 550,800 gross per year |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2026 |
Research Area
The research fellow will focus on the design and analysis of multibody floating solar systems. Key areas of investigation include:
- Analytical modelling and numerical analysis of multibody hydrodynamics.
- Structural analysis of lightweight floats, mechanical connectors, and mooring systems.
- Systems integration and co-location of marine renewable energy devices.
- Techno-economic analysis of offshore solar concepts.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A master’s degree in Marine Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Grades: An average grade of ‘B’ or higher for the Master’s degree and ‘C’ or higher for the Bachelor’s degree.
- English Proficiency: International candidates must provide TOEFL (minimum score 92 iBT) or IELTS (minimum score 6.5) results, unless exempt.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge in marine hydrodynamics, structural dynamics, physics-based simulations, and stochastic analysis methods.
- Personal Qualities: Strong analytical skills, programming ability, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in an international environment.
Scholarship Description
The position offers a professional development opportunity within a socially important research project. Benefits include:
- Remuneration according to the State Salary Scale (code 1017).
- Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.
- Access to modern facilities and comprehensive welfare schemes.
- A diverse and inclusive working environment at one of Southern Norway’s largest workplaces.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the official Jobbnorge portal. Candidates are required to upload the following documents:
- Academic transcripts for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- A detailed CV.
- Up to 10 academic articles or R&D projects for assessment.
- A brief project description (maximum two pages) outlining proposed research questions and methods related to floating solar arrays.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for submitting applications is December 1, 2026.
Apply Link
Interested candidates can apply directly through the official job portal: Apply for PhD Research Fellow Position





