PhD Position in Sociology

Lund University

Lund University, Sociology of Law Department

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top universities. The University has around 47,000 students and more than 8,800 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg, and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain, and improve our world and the human condition.

Lund University welcomes applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We regard gender equality and diversity as a strength and an asset.

Job Description

The PhD programme comprises 240 ECTS credits (equivalent to four years of full-time study) and concludes with a public defence of the PhD thesis.

  • You will primarily focus on your PhD studies and work on your dissertation in Sociology of Law.

  • You will actively participate in the department’s research environment.

  • In addition to research, the position may include teaching and administrative duties, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.

  • The working language is primarily English, but you are expected to acquire basic knowledge of Swedish during the employment period.

More information about the PhD programme is available at:
PhD Programme in Sociology of Law PDF

Qualifications

Requirements

  • A master’s degree in Sociology of Law or another relevant subject as deemed by the employer.

  • A minimum of 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 must be at the advanced level.

  • At least 30 ECTS credits in Sociology of Law at an advanced level, or a subject considered equivalent, with at least 15 credits consisting of a thesis.

  • Excellent ability to express yourself in spoken and written English.

  • Strong motivation and ability to work independently under pressure.

  • Good collaboration and communication skills.

Merits

  • Previous theses and publications in Sociology of Law or related fields.

  • Experience in teaching, research, or administrative work.

  • Self-driven, persistent, and strong writing skills.

  • Ability to collaborate, take initiative, work in a structured manner, and think analytically.

Assessment Criteria

  • Regulations for PhD employment are found in the Higher Education Ordinance. Only those admitted to PhD studies may be appointed to a PhD position.

  • Primary consideration is given to the applicant’s ability to benefit from PhD studies.

  • In addition to pursuing their own PhD studies, the position holder may be required to perform duties related to education, research, and administration according to specific provisions in the ordinance.

  • Research plan, previous theses, and published material in Sociology of Law or related subjects in social sciences or law are important for assessing this ability.

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.

  • Applicants must be highly motivated and capable of working independently under time pressure.

  • Strong collaboration and communication skills are required, as well as proficiency in English.

Application

The application must include:

  1. A cover letter in Swedish or English (max 1,000 words) with a brief presentation of yourself, your qualifications, and a short description of your interest in the PhD programme.

  2. A thesis equivalent to at least 15 ECTS credits at the advanced level in Sociology of Law or equivalent, and other relevant publications. If the thesis is in a language other than Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, or English, include a summary of max 1,000 words outlining method, theory, and results/analysis.

  3. CV in Swedish or English showing eligibility for PhD studies in Sociology of Law.

  4. Degree certificates and transcripts in Swedish or English.

  5. A brief research plan of max 13,000 characters including spaces and references, in Swedish or English. Instructions: Research Plan PDF

  6. Names and contact details of two referees.

  7. Any other documents you wish to submit in support of your application.

Assessment will be based on the above criteria, and top-ranked candidates will be invited for an interview.

Terms of Employment

  • Fixed-term employment, four years, according to Chapter 5, Section 7 of the Higher Education Ordinance.

  • The PhD programme comprises 240 ECTS credits and concludes with a public defence of a PhD thesis.

  • The position may include departmental duties, primarily teaching, up to 20% of full-time, which will extend the employment period accordingly.

  • Terms of employment for PhD candidates are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 5, Sections 1–7.

  • Start date: 2026-09-01. Work is expected to be on-site in Lund.

General study plan and further information about the PhD programme: PhD Handbook

  • Gender equality and diversity are considered in recruitment. In cases of equal qualifications, the underrepresented gender within the subject will be prioritized unless valid reasons suggest otherwise.

Additional Information

The Faculty of Social Sciences at Lund University is a leading education and research institution in Sweden, operating in Lund and Helsingborg.

Sociology of Law focuses on the relationship between law and society. Research areas include gender and discrimination, AI and machine learning, children's rights, welfare, legal cultures, corruption, migration, financial security, and crime. The department offers courses at all levels and runs the bachelor's program in criminology in collaboration with the Department of Sociology.

We kindly decline all sales and marketing contacts.

Employment Details

  • Type of employment: Temporary position

  • Salary: Monthly salary

  • Number of positions: 1

  • Full-time equivalent: 100%

  • City: Lund

  • County: Skåne län

  • Country: Sweden

  • Reference number: PA2025/3009

Contacts & Union Representatives

Contacts:

Union representatives:

Published: 27.Oct.2025
Last application date: 31.Jan.2026

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