Postdoctoral Researcher in Social Policy

The Institute for Social Research is part of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Stockholm University.

The Institute is an internationally leading research institute in social policy, welfare, inequality, and labor market with approximately 90 employees. More information about us can be found at: http://www.sofi.su.se/ (http://www.sofi.su.se/).

Project Description

The postdoctoral position is part of the research program “Sustainable Synergies” (https://www.su.se/forskning/forskningsprojekt/hållbara-synergier (https://www.su.se/forskning/forskningsprojekt/h%C3%A5llbara-synergier)). The program, based on both international comparative research and in-depth analyses of Sweden and the Nordic countries, aims to study how social policy and the welfare state can be developed to support a sustainable working life for all. The focus is on the transitions individuals make in the labor market throughout their working life, and the program examines how the interplay between different social policy measures can support successful transitions for various groups in the labor market. Potential interactions include those between different social policy programs within a policy area (e.g., education policy) as well as between different policy areas (e.g., health and pension policy). The program relies on quantitative data, utilizing comparative country-level data, comparative individual-level interview surveys, and individual-level register data from the Nordic countries.

Responsibilities

The research within the program is organized around five key life transitions: between school and work, work and family formation, work and ill health, work and retraining, and work and retirement. Depending on research interests, the postdoctoral researcher's work will be included in one or more of the work packages related to these transitions.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to develop and conduct independent research that aligns with the program's research. A preliminary draft of research questions should be included in the application in the form of a research plan. While independent research is central, collaboration with senior colleagues is also encouraged if opportunities arise.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the postdoctoral position, a completed doctoral degree or a foreign degree assessed to be equivalent to a relevant doctoral degree is required. The degree must be obtained by the time the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

The applicant must have a doctoral degree in sociology or a closely related field. It is advantageous if the doctoral degree or equivalent has been obtained no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an earlier obtained degree may also be considered advantageous. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, elected positions within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant employment/assignments for the subject area.

In the appointment process, particular emphasis will be placed on:

• The quality of previous research and qualifications.
• The extent to which the applicant's research plan and previous research support the overall goals of the Sustainable Synergies program.
• Skills and experience relevant to the analysis of social policy and transitions in working life using quantitative research methods.
• Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, where the applicant is expected to be fluent.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date is 2026-03-02 or by agreement.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and receive favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to the program's research leader, Professor Tomas Korpi, phone 08-16 31 47, mailto:[email protected].

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV, as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that your application is complete and that it reaches the university by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.