The Postdoctoral position is part of the research programme “Sustainable synergies” (www.su.se/english/research/research-projects/sustainable-synergies). The aim of the programme, which is based on both internationally comparative research and in-depth analyses of Sweden and the Nordic countries, is to study how social policy and the welfare state can be developed to support a sustainable working life for everyone. In focus are the working-life transitions that individuals make during their lifecourse, and the programme examines how the interplay between different social policies can support successful transitions for different groups in the labour market. Potential interplays include between different policies within a policy area (e.g. education policy) as well as between different policy areas (e.g. health and pension policies). The programme builds upon quantitative data, and programme members make use of for instance comparative country-level data, comparative individual-level surveys, as well as individual-level register data from the Nordic countries.
Main responsibilities
Research within the programme is organized around five crucial life-course transitions: between school and work, work and family formation, work and ill health, work and retraining, and work and retirement. The postdoctoral research will be part of one or more of the work packages around these transitions, depending on research interests.
The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to develop and pursue independent research corresponding to that of the research program. An initial outline of research questions is to be included in the application in the form of a research plan. However, although independent research is essential, collaboration with senior colleagues is encouraged should opportunities arise.
Qualification requirements
In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.
Assessment criteria
The applicant must hold a doctoral degree in sociology or a related discipline. It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.
In the appointment process, special attention will be given to:
- The quality of earlier research and qualifications
- The degree to which the applicant’s research plan and previous research support the overall goals of the Sustainable synergies program
- Skills and experience relevant for the analysis of life-course transitions and social policy using quantitative research methods
- Written and spoken English skills, where the applicant is expected to be fluent.
About the employment
The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date 2026-03-02 or as per agreement.
The Swedish Institute for Social Research (SOFI) is part of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Stockholm University. The institute is an internationally leading research institute in the field of social policy, welfare, inequality and labour markets and has over 90 employees.
More information about us, please visit: www.su.se/swedish-institute-for-social-research/.
We offer
With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.
Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.
Apply
More information, and the application form can be found here: https://su.varbi.com/what:job/jobID:877052/where:4/
Contact
Further information about the position can be obtained from the programs principal investigator, Professor Tomas Korpi, phone: +46 8 16 31 49, tomas.korpi@sofi.su.se.