Vacant job

The Swedish Institute for American Studies (SINAS) is a department within the Department of English at Uppsala University. The Institute's main purpose is to conduct and promote research and teaching in the field of American studies, primarily concerning the USA. We adopt broad humanistic and social science perspectives on American society, history, and politics.

The Institute conducts both teaching at undergraduate and advanced levels and independent research in the field. SINAS has also developed significant activities aimed at spreading knowledge, building networks, and creating interest in the field at Uppsala University and in Sweden through seminars, workshops, lectures, symposia, and conferences. An important part of SINAS's work since its inception has been to participate in various ways in knowledge dissemination about the USA in collaboration with the surrounding society.

Description of the Field

American studies is an international and interdisciplinary research field that has developed in both the USA and Europe since the mid-20th century. The complexity and change over time of American society, from different perspectives, theories, and methodologies, are at the center of the work. A leading theme within the field has been so-called "transnational American studies," which, by focusing on the USA, has emphasized its global contact zones and transnational relations.

Job Responsibilities

This position aims to develop new research concerning North America, including its relations with the outside world. We welcome research ideas within any subject relevant to SINAS's activities, such as studies of history, society, and politics. The field of American studies is particularly well-suited for cross-disciplinary and multidisciplinary research.

A goal of the position should be to generate concrete research-initiating activities, such as applying for research funding and/or creating research networks.

The position covers 50% of full-time work for 6 months. The main task is research. Some administrative tasks may be included.

As the holder of the researcher position, you are expected to participate in SINAS's regular activities on-site in Uppsala. This includes participation in SINAS's regular meetings and seminars.

Qualifications

Eligible for appointment as a researcher in American studies is someone who has completed a relevant doctoral degree in a humanistic or social science subject, and whose planned research lies within American studies.

Prioritization will be given to applicants who have completed their doctoral degree no more than seven years before the application deadline. Since the position may involve collaboration, knowledge of Swedish and documented good cooperation skills are required.

Very good knowledge of English is a requirement for the position.

Evaluation Criteria for Eligible Applicants:

In the selection among eligible applicants, special weight will be placed on academic merits and the quality of the research plan. In assessing the research plan, consideration will be given to the scientific potential, originality, relevance, and feasibility of the research project. The project's relation to SINAS's research environment will be given weight.

Since the position aims to initiate new research, the academic merits in the application will be assessed primarily in qualitative terms. A quantitative advantage for an applicant, which may be explained by having been active for a longer period, should not be decisive.

Application Process: All merits must be well documented so that both quality and scope can be assessed. Merits obtained after the last application date cannot be claimed. The application must be written in Swedish or English and submitted via Uppsala University's electronic recruitment system Varbi, and include the following:

• Cover letter (max. 1 page)
• CV (max. 3 pages)
• Publication list
• Description of research idea, including plan for the work's execution (max. 3 pages)
• Scientific works cited (max. 3)
• Diplomas, certificates, and other relevant documents

The recruitment group may use interviews and references. Applicants must therefore attach a list of references (maximum three) that can illuminate the applicant's professional competence and personal qualities relevant to the position.

Any cited publications not available in electronic format should be sent in two copies to Uppsala University, Faculty of Humanities, Box 256, 751 05 Uppsala. Mark the shipment with ref. UFV-PA 2026/1839.

Information about the position is provided by Adam Hjorthén (Director of SINAS), [email protected] and Christer Larsson (Head of Department), [email protected].

About the Position

Fixed-term employment. The extent is 50% during the period 1 August 2026 to 31 January 2027. Location: Uppsala.

Date of commencement: 1 August 2026 (or as agreed)

Application deadline: 12 June 2026

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international standing. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and engagement, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University

https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/)

The employment may be subject to a security check. In a security check, a prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved.

We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union Representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]