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The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Candidate position in Project Management in a VUCA World at its main campus in Trondheim, Norway. This doctoral research opportunity is hosted by the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering within the Project and Quality Management Group.
Application Deadline: March 29, 2026
Employment Duration: 3 years
PhD Programme: Engineering
About NTNU
NTNU is a leading technical-scientific university with a strong emphasis on professional education, innovation, and interdisciplinary research. With approximately 9,000 employees and 43,000 students, NTNU contributes to advancing knowledge for a better world. The university operates across three cities in Norway, with its headquarters in Trondheim.
PhD Research Focus: Project Management in a VUCA Environment
This PhD position centers on advancing research in Project Management in a VUCA world, where Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity fundamentally reshape how projects are conceived, governed, and executed.
Traditional project management models often assume stability, predictability, linear development, and clear governance structures. However, contemporary project environments—shaped by technological disruption, geopolitical instability, and global interdependence—challenge these assumptions.
Key Research Themes
The doctoral project may explore:
- The limitations of linear and stage-gate project management models in volatile environments
- Leadership approaches when project goals and contexts continuously shift
- Decision-making under uncertainty and incomplete information
- Managing complexity in interconnected project ecosystems
- Blurring boundaries between operations and project-based development
- Reframing project management education for unstable and dynamic environments
- Ontological and epistemological foundations of project theory
Candidates are encouraged to develop an original research proposal that:
- Identifies a clearly defined research problem
- Demonstrates theoretical and practical significance
- Proposes a rigorous methodological framework
- Addresses implications for governance, leadership, and execution in VUCA settings
This position seeks a candidate who will contribute to shaping next-generation project management frameworks rather than merely critiquing traditional models.
Roles and Responsibilities
As a PhD Candidate at NTNU, you will:
- Complete doctoral education leading to a PhD degree
- Conduct high-quality independent research
- Publish academic and popular science contributions
- Contribute to research grant proposal development
- Participate actively in the Project and Quality Management Group
- Engage in international research collaboration, conferences, or research stays abroad
- Adapt to evolving academic and organizational responsibilities
Required Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Master’s degree in Project Management, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent (five-year Norwegian equivalent with 120 ECTS at master’s level)
- Completion of the Master’s degree before August 1, 2026
- Strong academic record (minimum grade equivalent to B on NTNU’s grading scale)
- Eligibility for admission to NTNU’s PhD Programme in Engineering
- Excellent written and oral English communication skills
- 3–5 years of professional experience in large-scale projects (construction, energy, ICT, or similar sectors)
- A 3–5 page PhD project proposal
Preferred Qualifications
- Academic publications (conference or journal)
- Experience writing research grant applications
- Team-based professional experience
- Knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language
Personal Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Independent and structured work habits
- Goal orientation and planning skills
- Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
- Effective communication and academic presentation skills
- Resilience under pressure
- Intellectual curiosity and motivation for research
- Solid understanding of project management theory
Personal suitability will be emphasized during selection.
Salary and Employment Conditions
- Position Code: 1017 PhD Candidate
- Gross Annual Salary: NOK 550,800 (subject to qualifications and seniority)
- 2% statutory pension contribution deducted
- Membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
- Employment contingent upon admission to the PhD Programme within three months
- Full-time physical presence at NTNU required
- Subject to State Employees Act and Norwegian export control regulations
What NTNU Offers
- A research-intensive and internationally recognized academic environment
- Structured doctoral supervision and career development
- Funding to support research activities
- Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture
- Mentor program for new employees
- Free Norwegian language training (A2 level)
- Comprehensive employee benefits
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
NTNU values diversity as a driver of innovation and societal impact. The university promotes gender balance and inclusive recruitment practices and encourages applications regardless of gender, background, or career interruptions.
NTNU supports responsible research assessment principles and recognizes diverse academic contributions aligned with international research evaluation frameworks.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Transcripts and diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- CV
- Master’s thesis (or draft if recently submitted)
- Research project outline (maximum 1500 words / 4 pages)
- Motivation letter (maximum 400 words / 1 page)
- Relevant publications (if applicable)
- Contact details of three referees
International applicants must provide documentation verifying the scope and quality of their education. Joint publications must include a description of the applicant’s contribution.
Applications will be evaluated based on academic excellence, research potential, motivation, and personal suitability.
Living and Working in Trondheim, Norway
Trondheim is widely recognized as Norway’s technology capital and offers a high quality of life, clean environment, strong welfare infrastructure, and excellent educational opportunities. The city combines a vibrant cultural scene with close access to nature, making it an attractive location for international researchers and families.
Contact Information
Academic Contact: Professor Bjørn Sørskot Andersen
Recruitment Contact: HR Senior Consultant Hedda Winnberg
If you are motivated to contribute to the future of project management research in complex and uncertain environments, this PhD opportunity at NTNU offers a strong academic platform and international research exposure.
Apply now at: https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/296341/phd-candidate-within-project-management-in-a-vuca-world
