The University of Bergen (UiB) is offering a fully-funded PhD Research Fellow position in Borehole PhD in Geophysics, and it’s open to talented applicants from all over the world. This isn’t just another academic posting; it’s a career-launching role within a prestigious research group, working on problems that matter to both academia and industry.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know: the exciting research you’ll be doing, the generous benefits you’ll receive, the exact eligibility criteria, and a step-by-step application breakdown. Stay tuned until the end, where we’ll reveal the most common mistake applicants make and how you can avoid it to strengthen your application.
Unveiling the PhD Research Fellow Position
Let’s start with the basics. This is a paid, full-time position designed to help you earn your doctorate while contributing to significant scientific research.
- University or Organisation: University of Bergen (UiB)
- Department: Department of Geosciences
- Course Level: PhD (Research Fellow)
- Application Deadline: 31 August 2025
- Award: A competitive salary starting at NOK 568,700 annually, plus extensive benefits
- Access Mode: Applications are submitted exclusively online through the Jobbnorge portal
- Number of Awards: One (1) position is available
- Nationality: Open to all international and domestic applicants
- Location: The award is tenable in the beautiful city of Bergen, Norway
The Heart of the Research: What Will You Actually Do?
This specific PhD in Geophysics position is part of the innovative DigiWells research centre. DigiWells focuses on digitalisation for next-generation energy solutions, particularly in oil and gas, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency.
Your research will be highly computational. You will delve into developing and applying advanced numerical models to interpret electromagnetic measurements taken from boreholes (wells). This work is crucial for accurately characterising subsurface formations, which is vital for resource exploration and management.
Your day-to-day work will involve:
- Developing algorithms to solve complex partial differential equations (PDEs).
- Working with numerical inversion methods to interpret real geophysical data.
- Possibly integrating machine learning techniques to improve interpretation models.
- Collaborating with a dynamic team of academics and industry partners.
Are You the Right Fit? Breaking Down the Eligibility Criteria
This is a competitive fellowship, so it’s essential to understand exactly what the department is looking for. The criteria are designed to find a candidate who can successfully tackle the project’s technical challenges.
Eligible Countries: Applicants from all nationalities are welcome and encouraged to apply.
Acceptable Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for research in Borehole Geophysics, Geosciences, Applied Mathematics, Computational Physics, or closely related areas.
The Essential Admissible Criteria
To be eligible, you must meet the following non-negotiable requirements:
A Relevant Master’s Degree: You must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in geophysics, applied mathematics, theoretical/computational physics, or a closely related field.
Good news for current students: If you are in the final stages of your Master’s program, you can still apply! You must provide documentation confirming that you are on track to complete your degree before October 1, 2025.
Strong Computational Foundation: You need a proven, strong background in numerical methods for solving PDEs (e.g., diffusion or wave equations). This is the core of the research work.
Specialized Skills: You must be skilled in at least one of the following advanced areas:
- Numerical inversion methods
- Optimization
- Machine learning
Programming Proficiency: You must be highly proficient in programming, specifically in Python and/or Matlab. Tip: A documented portfolio on a platform like GitHub is highly encouraged and can significantly boost your application.
Language and Soft Skills:
- You must have strong communication skills in both written and spoken English.
- You must demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary team environment.
What Will Make Your Application Stand Out? (Advantageous Criteria)
While not mandatory, having experience or knowledge in any of the following areas will give you a significant competitive advantage:
- Understanding of Maxwell’s equations (the foundation of electromagnetism).
- Knowledge of rock physics models.
- Experience with Bayesian inversion techniques.
- Practical application of machine learning in geophysics.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. All applications must be submitted electronically via the Jobbnorge website. Do not email your application to the department.
Here is the complete checklist of documents you need to prepare and upload:
| Document | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Statement of Research Interests | A letter of motivation outlining your research interests, why you are interested in this specific project, and how your skills make you a perfect fit. | Critical. This is your chance to show your passion and understanding of the field. |
| 2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) | A comprehensive CV detailing your education, work experience, skills, publications (if any), and other achievements. | Essential. Keep it professional and relevant. |
| 3. References | The names, positions, and current contact information (email & phone) for two referees. One must be your Master’s thesis supervisor. | Essential. Ensure your referees are aware and willing to recommend you. |
| 4. Transcripts & Diplomas | Official transcripts and copies of diplomas for both your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. | Mandatory. Unofficial copies may suffice initially. |
| 5. Master’s Completion Confirmation | If you haven’t completed your Master’s, you must provide official documentation from your university confirming the expected completion date. | Required for current students. |
| 6. Proof of English Proficiency | If required, test scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or similar. This is often waived if your previous degree was taught in English. | Check UiB’s official requirements. |
| 7. Certificates & Publications | Any other relevant certificates, a list of publications, or a link to your GitHub/portfolio. | Highly Recommended. Showcases your broader experience. |
Pro Tip: Start your application on Jobbnorge well before the deadline. This gives you ample time to troubleshoot any technical issues and ensures your referees have time to submit their letters if prompted.
Beyond the Salary: The Incredible Benefits Package
This PhD in Geophysics position is more than just a research project; it’s a professionally rewarding career move with benefits that are among the best in the world for doctoral researchers.
- A Competitive Salary: You will receive a gross annual salary of NOK 568,700 (approximately €50,000 / $54,000 USD as of 2023). This is more than comfortable for living in Norway. Furthermore, the salary will increase annually based on seniority and progress in the PhD program.
- A 4th-Year Teaching Opportunity: The position is for 3 years, but there is a strong possibility of a 4th year of duty. This fourth year typically involves teaching or other career-enhancing tasks, for which you will receive additional salary.
- Pension Fund Membership: You will become a member of the Norwegian State Pension Fund, a valuable and secure long-term benefit.
- World-Class Research Environment: You will be integrated into the DigiWells center, offering unparalleled collaboration between leading academics and industry experts. This provides practical insight and fantastic networking opportunities.
- International Collaboration: You will have the chance to work with and potentially visit renowned international partner institutions like the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) and TU Delft.
- Excellent Welfare Benefits: Norway is famous for its high quality of life. You will have access to the country’s superb public healthcare system, generous parental leave policies, and other social benefits.
Life in Bergen, Norway
Bergen is not just a workplace; it’s a stunningly beautiful city surrounded by mountains and fjords. It’s a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history, offering an exceptional work-life balance. From hiking and skiing to enjoying a thriving music and arts scene, Bergen provides an unparalleled environment to live and study for three years.
Why This PhD Position is a Golden Opportunity
In the world of geosciences, the University of Bergen is a top-tier European institution. A PhD in Geophysics from UiB is a respected credential that will open doors globally. This particular project sits at the intersection of theoretical physics, applied computation, and real-world energy challenges—making your research highly relevant and impactful.
You will graduate not just as a doctor of philosophy, but as a highly skilled computational scientist with experience in machine learning, inverse problems, and high-performance computing—skills that are in tremendous demand across industries, from energy to tech.
Ready to Apply? Your Next Steps
The deadline of August 31, 2025, may seem far away, but time flies when you’re preparing a strong application.
- Bookmark the Official Page: Immediately go to the official Jobbnorge announcement (search for University of Bergen and the position title) and bookmark it. This is your primary source of truth.
- Reach Out to Your Referees: Politely inform your potential referees now. Give them plenty of time to prepare a strong letter for you.
- Craft Your Narrative: Start drafting your statement of research interests. Why does this project excite you specifically? Connect your past skills to the future research.
- Gather Documents: Begin collecting your transcripts, diplomas, and other paperwork. Don’t leave this for the last minute.
And remember that common mistake we mentioned? It’s submitting a generic motivation letter. The selection committee can instantly tell if you’ve copied a template. The applicants who succeed are those who demonstrate a genuine interest in this specific project at this specific university. Mention DigiWells, mention the department’s research strengths, and explain exactly how your unique skills can contribute. Be specific, be authentic, and be passionate.
This is your chance to launch an incredible research career in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Don’t just dream about a PhD in Geophysics—take the first step today.
