Doctoral Student in Media and Communication Studies

Raket Webbyrå AB; Karlstads kommun; On-site; SEK 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Raket Webbyrå AB in Karlstad is accepting applications for a Doctoral Student in Media and Communication Studies. The role includes designing a thesis on the social consequences of digitalisation, with opportunities for collaboration. Candidates must have a Master's degree and relevant coursework in the field.

This position is fixed-term for up to five years, and the applicant will be required to contribute to departmental duties. Strong English proficiency is essential, and knowledge of Swedish is considered a valuable asset.

Qualifications

• Master's level independent written work quality.
• Quality and originality of proposed thesis project.
• Alignment with research themes related to digitalisation.

Responsibilities

• Design thesis project on digitalisation.
• Attend teaching or administrative duties.
• Work independently and contribute to discipline development.

Skills

Proficiency in English

Good command of Swedish

Education

Second-cycle qualification

At least 240 credits

Job description

Doctoral Student in Media and Communication Studies

Sapere Aude – dare to know – is our motto. Our students and employees develop important knowledge that enrich both the individual and the community. Our academic environment is characterised by curiosity, courage and openness, with a close connection between people, professional roles, disciplines and research. Gender equality, diversity and a democratic approach form the foundation of our organisation. Located in Värmland, a scenic region with a rich cultural life, we are committed to promoting sustainable development in close collaboration with the wider community.

Description

The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences is accepting applications for a doctoral studentship leading to a PhD in Media and Communication Studies at the Department of Geography, Media and Communication. The department comprises Media and Communication Studies, Human Geography, Geography, and Tourism Studies. Media and Communication Studies offers undergraduate education as well as Master’s programmes. The learning and research environment is inviting, interdisciplinary and values global perspectives. Undergraduate education is mainly offered within three major degree programmes: Public Relations, Visual Communication and Design, and Digital Media and Analysis.

Research in Media and Communication Studies is primarily conducted in two research environments at the department: the Centre for Geomedia Studies (Geomedia, https://www.kau.se/en/geomedia) and the research environment NODE – The Andrei Centre for Research on News and Opinion in the Digital Era. Geomedia focuses on the interplay between media, spatiality and mobility in contemporary and historical transformations. NODE covers journalism, public opinion and media, with a focus on news reporting, public opinion in the digital age and the influence of social media platforms. Researchers in both environments publish internationally and secure external funding.

As a doctoral student, you will have great freedom in designing your thesis project, which should address a predefined broad theme: The social consequences of digitalisation. The project may explore the opportunities and challenges of a connected, digital everyday life, including counter‑reactions to digitalisation. Collaboration with both Geomedia and NODE is possible.

Doctoral students are expected to work independently, contribute to the development of the discipline and department, attend teaching or administrative duties (up to 20% of time), and be active in the day‑to‑day operations of the department. The doctoral programme comprises 240 credits for a Doctor degree and 120 credits for a Licentiate. The appointment is a paid position with a combination of studies and work, offering a potential academic career. Commitment, drive and a structured approach are essential.

Entry requirements and admission

Eligibility requires a second‑cycle qualification, at least 240 credits of coursework with a minimum of 60 credits at the second‑cycle level or equivalent. Specific entry requires at least 90 credits in Media and Communication Studies at the introductory, continuation and specialization level, or equivalent knowledge. Applicants must also demonstrate the ability to benefit from the programme. Admission is based on individual assessment.

Assessment criteria

• Special weight will be given to previous study results, especially the quality of independent written work at the master's level.
• Special weight will also be given to the quality and originality of the proposed thesis project.
• Considerable weight will be given to alignment with the predefined theme – The social consequences of digitalisation – and to research connected to Geomedia and/or NODE.
• Considerable weight will also be given to language skills, especially proficiency in English.
• Weight will be given to any published research papers.
• Weight will also be given to the extent the applicant intends to be a physically present and active member of the research environment.
• A good command of Swedish is considered a valuable qualification.

Terms

Upon admission, the doctoral student is appointed for a four‑year full‑time studies period consisting of research only. Teaching or departmental duties may extend the appointment up to a maximum of five years full‑time. The position is fixed‑term, initially one year, with possible extensions of up to two years each. Start date is agreed by both parties. The salary corresponds to the standard doctoral studentship level and progresses according to the local collective agreement.

Application

Submit the application via the University’s web‑based recruitment tool, Varbi. Applicants must submit a complete application before the deadline, ensuring objective and qualitative assessments. The application should include:

• A cover letter detailing the reasons behind interest in the position.
• A list of qualifications (CV).
• Degree certificate with a complete transcript of the included courses, or a certified list of completed courses with grades and dates.
• Copy of Master’s thesis or equivalent.
• Copies of publications or certificates for other qualifications, where applicable.
• A brief research plan (1,500–2,000 words) presenting the thesis idea and its relation to the research theme – The social consequences of digitalisation.
• Any letters of recommendation.
• Two references, such as a teacher, supervisor, or previous or current superior.

Attach all documents and publications to the electronic application. If documents cannot be submitted electronically, send them to:

651 88 KARLSTAD

State the reference number: REK 2026/141.

Contact

• Mats Nilsson, [e-mail]