Research Assistant in Political Science

The Swedish Defence University is an internationally renowned institution in defense, crisis management, and security. We offer a unique academic environment where civilian meets military. We educate civilian and military leaders, experts, and researchers who will analyze and manage today's and future crises and security issues. The Swedish Defence University trains Sweden's officers and leads the academic development of the officer profession. We conduct research in law focusing on operational law and international law, defense systems, war science, leadership and management, military history, and political science.

The political science research at the Swedish Defence University analyzes how security and insecurity are created, who security is for, and how crises are prevented and managed – in all cases in a Swedish, European, and global context. We explore threats, conflicts, decision-making processes, communication processes, identity construction, and ethical dilemmas concerning state, society, and individual, with a particular focus on Sweden and the Nordic countries, the European Union, the United States, Russia, and East Asia.

The purpose of our research and education is to contribute to a more complex and nuanced understanding of the world. Our researchers regularly participate with their expertise in national and international media, advise decision-makers, engage in commissioned education, and work to increase knowledge in society on current issues.

The political science research at the Swedish Defence University can be divided into two overarching themes - security policy and crisis management - as well as a number of orientations that organize researchers as well as doctoral students. The position is to support the research project Frontline Defenders for Peace (hereafter referred to as the “Defenders project”). The project examines the role of environmental and human rights defenders in countering extraction activities and explores how their actions and agency illuminate pathways to peace.

Job Responsibilities

As a research assistant, you will work closely with the project's research leader and the research group Environmental Politics and Climate Security at the Department of Political Science. The main task of the position is to support data collection and data processing within the project, with a strong emphasis on qualitative research methods.

Who are you?

We are looking for a candidate who has recently graduated or is in the final stages of a degree in political science, peace and conflict studies, cultural geography, or a related field. Solid knowledge of qualitative research methods – such as content analysis, interviews, and fieldwork – is a requirement. Applicants should be able to substantiate these skills through written work samples, preferably academic works such as a bachelor's or master's thesis. Knowledge of Burmese or other minority languages (e.g., Karen, Kachin, Shan, Karenni, or others) is an advantage.

Personal qualities that are valued include good analytical ability, independence, and a demonstrated interest in acquiring new knowledge. Good communication and organizational skills are also desirable.

The Position

The position is a temporary full-time appointment for three months or part-time for six months. The desired start date is April 1, 2026, but a later or earlier start may be possible. Please note that the position is based in Stockholm.

A position at the Swedish Defence University may involve a security clearance according to the Security Protection Act (2018:585).

The position may also involve military placement. If you are already military-placed in your current position at an authority and your competence is needed in the Swedish Defence University's military organization, negotiations will take place between the relevant authority and the Swedish Defence University regarding where you will be placed.

The Swedish Defence University strives for equality and diversity within all professional groups. We welcome applicants from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. For us, it is self-evident to have an inclusive work climate and that our employees can combine work with active parenthood.

Salary and Benefits

The Swedish Defence University applies individual salary setting.

Benefits for employees at the Swedish Defence University - FHS/Benefits/employee.

Application

The Swedish Defence University's recruitment system. Your application must be submitted no later than March 15.

A complete application must be received by the Swedish Defence University by the last application day at midnight, CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

The application must include:

• Copies of all degree certificates and transcripts.
• A personal letter and CV (max three pages).
• A copy of the thesis at the advanced level and any other academic publications you wish to refer to (max two texts).

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Welcome with your application by March 15, 2026!

For contact with the employee organizations at the Swedish Defence University, email [email protected], OFR/[email protected], and OFR/[email protected].

We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance due to state procurement regulations.