The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU, Trondheim), Department of Historical Studies, offers two full-time 2,5-year (30 months) Postdoctoral positions within the project "The Fate of Nations: Natural resources and historical development, 1880-2015", funded by the Norwegian Research Council (NFR). The project explores the global political economy of natural resources from 1880 to the present. See the project website (http://www.fateofnations.no) for more information about the project and the group members. The project is organized in different work packages and the two positions are placed within two of these.
One postdoctoral fellow will work closely with Researcher Mats Ingulstad in a work package investigating the roles that international institutions have played in the exploitation of natural resources. The object of study should involve one or more formal institutions, whether universal or regional organizations, such as the League of Nations, the UN, the World Bank, the European Union, Organization of American States, CARICOM, ILO, or others. Topics to be addressed could include the promotion of foreign investment, management of development programs, international commodity agreements, multilateral diplomacy or regional cooperation. Proposals regarding other organizations or issues are also very welcome.
The other postdoctoral fellow will work closely with Professor Espen Storli in a work package investigating the historic role of companies and cartels in the exploitation of natural resources and their impact on societies in which they operate. Topics to be addressed could include the question of how companies have integrated economies across borders through the creation of global value chains, how the relationship between firms and states have shaped the outcome for different communities, the interactions of companies and cartels with the natural environment through extractive activities, as well as how firms cope with problems of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Proposals regarding other issues connected to the role of companies in the international political economy of natural resources are also very welcome.
The successful applicants will contribute toward the broader objectives of the Fate of Nations project though research and participation in the research project’s workshops and conferences both nationally and internationally. International publications are expected.
Applications should hold a PhD in history or closely related fields. In making the appointment, emphasis will be placed on candidates with active research portfolios.
Postdoctoral candidates are remunerated in code 1352, and are normally remunerated at gross from NOK 515 200 per annum before tax. From the salary, 2% is deducted as a contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.
The appointment is to be made in accordance with the regulations in force concerning State Employees and Civil Servants and national guidelines for appointment as PhD, postdoctor and research assistant
Appointments will be made in accordance with the current regulations for universities. The successful applicants must agree to the conditions that apply to public employees. A contract will be drawn up regarding the period of appointment and required duties.
Work place will be at NTNU and primary residency in Trondheim is a prerequisite.
Complete applications include:
A cover letter including a statement of interest and motivation.
A project proposal of not more than five pages outlining the research agenda and how the postdoctoral fellow will contribute towards the bigger project
A full CV and list of publications
Electronic copies of relevant publications
The names and e-mail addresses of two references.
To receive a full description of the Fate of Nations research project, please contact Mats Ingulstad (mats.ingulstad@ntnu.no) or Espen Storli (espen.storli@ntnu.no). Any other inquiries concerning the posts may also be directed to them.
Publications and other academic works that the applicant would like to be considered in the evaluation must accompany the application. Joint works will be considered. If it is difficult to identify the individual applicant's contribution to joint works, the applicant must include a brief description of his or her contribution.
Please submit your application electronically via jobbnorge.no with your CV, diplomas and certificates. Applicants invited for interview must include certified copies of transcripts and reference letters. Please refer to the "Work package Espen Storli" or "Work package Mats Ingulstad" when applying.
Please notice that applications sent by e-mail will not be considered.
Applicants that are considered for the position will be asked for references and invited to an interview.
Application deadline: December 2, 2018