13 PhD Scholarships for International Students at University of South-Eastern Norway

The University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) offers an exciting array of fully-funded PhD scholarship opportunities for motivated researchers eager to contribute to cutting-edge projects in technology, natural sciences, maritime sciences, and management. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, USN supports scholars in advancing their academic careers while making a meaningful impact on society. You can also check 6 Fully Funded ICIQ Severo Ochoa Predoctoral Fellowships in Spain

Salary and Benefits

All PhD positions offer competitive compensation and benefits:

• Annual Salary: NOK 536,200–550,800, with potential raises based on time served. In special cases, some positions may offer NOK 546,569–685,728.
• Benefits: State pension plan, attractive welfare benefits, access to stimulating research environments, and opportunities for physical activities during work hours.

PhD Research Fellow in TwinFlow: Digital Twins for Multi-Use of Mobile Battery Fleet Systems

This project aims to develop a platform for efficient management of mobile battery fleets used in applications like emergency power, energy trading, grid balancing, and disaster recovery. By creating digital twins, the project addresses challenges like varying terrain and traffic conditions to improve real-time planning. Key research areas include:

• Geospatial and Temporal Analysis: Analyze transportation data for better fleet planning.
• Multi-Agent System Modeling: Optimize fleet operations using multi-agent systems.
• Battery Degradation: Identify optimal uses while minimizing battery wear.
• Digital Twin Platform: Develop cloud-based decision-support systems.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Power Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, Environmental Engineering, Mathematics (Operations Research), Computer Science, or Machine Learning.
  • Strong academic record (average grade B or better).
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in modeling, programming (e.g., Python, Julia, JavaScript), or cloud computing.
  • Strong interest in systems thinking and interdisciplinary research.
  • Relevant industry or academic experience.

Application Process

Apply online via link provided below by August 17, 2025. Submit:

• Cover letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• 5-page (max) project description outlining your approach, schedule, and methods.
• Master’s thesis, publications, or GitHub profile.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Integration of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) in Microelectronics

This project focuses on integrating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into microelectronic chips to create efficient, low-cost sensors and advanced transistors. CNTs will be used as sensing elements for applications like air quality monitoring, medical diagnostics, and agriculture, while also enabling ternary computing for improved digital systems. Key research areas include:

• CNT Growth Optimization: Develop low-temperature growth methods for high-density, defect-free CNTs compatible with large-scale manufacturing.
• CNT-Based Sensors: Create ultra-sensitive sensors for gas, pressure, and environmental monitoring.
• CNT Field Effect Transistors (CNTFET): Design transistors for ternary logic circuits to enhance performance and power efficiency.
• Multi-Valued Logic (MVL): Tune CNT properties for ternary computing to increase information density.

You can also checkout 51 Fully Funded Marie Curie PhD Scholarships in Gen-Q Quantum Science Programme

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Micro/Nanoelectronics, Electronic/Electrical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Microsensors, or related fields.
  • Strong background in electronics or material science.
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months (average grade B or better).
• Preferred:
  • Cleanroom microfabrication experience or knowledge.
  • Proficiency in EDA tools (e.g., Cadence Virtuoso, Tanner EDA).
  • Experience in Multiphysics modeling (COMSOL or ANSYS).
  • Software skills in MATLAB and LabVIEW.
  • Relevant Master’s thesis or projects.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by September 1, 2025. Submit:

• 1-page cover letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Master’s thesis and any publications.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in AI for Hematological Image Analysis

This project leverages digital bone marrow smear analysis, pioneered by Vestfold Regional Hospital Trust, to create AI-driven tools for rapid diagnosis of severe blood disorders. By automating plasma cell classification, the project aims to speed up treatment planning and free up time for patient care. Key research areas include:

Check also: 15 Research Associate Positions (Doctoral Candidates) at MARUM, University of Bremen

• Image Analysis: Develop AI models for classifying plasma cells in bone marrow smears.
• Explainable AI: Ensure AI diagnostics are transparent and trustworthy.
• Clinical Decision Support: Create visualization tools to aid medical professionals.
• Human-AI Collaboration: Integrate human input into diagnostic decision-making.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Computer Science, AI, Cybernetics, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months (average grade B or better).
• Preferred:
  • Strong programming skills in Python or similar languages.
  • Experience in AI, computer vision, image analysis, or deep learning.
  • Knowledge of hematology, cytology, or pathology.
  • Experience handling large datasets.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 15, 2025. Submit:

• 1-page project description or motivation letter.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in AI-Driven Maritime Border Security and Safety

This project addresses the growing complexity of Norway’s maritime security, tackling issues like smuggling and non-conventional operations through next-generation surveillance technologies. Using AI, you’ll develop systems for real-time anomaly detection and autonomous monitoring. Key research areas include:

• Autonomous Surveillance Systems: Develop AI-driven systems for maritime environments.
• Intelligent Anomaly Detection: Identify unusual vessel behaviors and patterns.
• Multi-Sensor Fusion: Integrate data from multiple sensors for adaptive threat assessment.
• AI-Driven Decision Support: Enhance maritime situational awareness with AI tools.

Check also: 18 Fully Funded PhD Vacancies at the Technical University of Denmark

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Computer Science, AI, Robotics, Cybernetics, Maritime Technology, or related fields.
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months (average grade B or better).
• Preferred:
  • Experience in AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Mixture of Experts, or Agentic AI.
  • Strong programming skills in Python or similar languages.
  • Knowledge of maritime systems, autonomy, or sensor technology.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 1, 2025. Submit:

• 1-page project description or motivation letter.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Autonomous Systems Ferry Project

This project explores the integration of human operators with AI-based autonomous navigation systems for zero-emission ferries. It aims to enhance safety and efficiency in maritime transport through human-AI teaming. Key research areas include:

• Human-Autonomy Interaction: Study strategies for seamless control handovers between humans and systems, focusing on transparency and uncertainty representation.
• Human-AI Teaming: Investigate role allocation, trust, and decision-making dynamics for optimal performance.
• Human Factors in Design: Examine how human capabilities shape autonomous system design and operation.
• Ethics in AI: Address fairness, accountability, and bias in AI-assisted decision-making.

Also read: Fully Funded Research Opportunities at Trinity College Dublin

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Maritime/Shipping Management, Nautical Operations, Operations Research, Computer Science, Engineering, Human Factors, Cognitive Psychology, or related fields (average grade B or higher).
  • Excellent written and spoken English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Nautical Operations within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Knowledge of research methods or data analytics.
  • Experience with Human Factors methods.
  • Research or project work experience and publications.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 4, 2025. Submit:

• 1-page project description or motivation letter.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Noncommutative Quantum Models

This project investigates the intersection of quantum theory and gravity at low energy scales, focusing on noncommutative geometry and quantum phase space models. You’ll study their impacts on thermodynamic properties and material structures, such as piezoelectrics. Key research areas include:

• Noncommutative Geometry: Extend quantum theory formalism to study quantum space-times.
• Quantum Phase Space Models: Analyze non-canonical commutation relations and their effects.
• Thermodynamics and Materials: Investigate impacts on microscopic systems and material properties.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Combine quantum physics, statistical physics, and material science.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Physics (Theoretical Physics, Mathematical Physics), Material Science, Condensed Matter Physics, or related fields (average grade B or higher).
  • Fluency in written and spoken English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in noncommutative geometry or quantum theory.
  • Strong candidates from material science or condensed matter physics are also encouraged.

Worth Read: 11 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities at NTNU, Norway

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 5, 2025. Submit:

• 2-page motivation letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Master’s thesis (PDF or link to online archive).
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Self-adaptive Multivariate Modelling for CO2 Capture

This project focuses on optimizing gas-liquid absorption processes for CO2 capture, a critical technology for reducing atmospheric CO2. You’ll develop reliable methods for real-time analysis of CO2 capture solvents and assess their stability. Key research areas include:

• Analytical Techniques: Develop methods for online quantitative analysis of solvent composition.
• Multivariate Calibration: Use Raman, FT-NIR, and FT-IR spectroscopy to monitor lead molecule concentrations.
• Chemical Understanding: Study chemical species and reactions related to spectroscopic data.
• Solvent Stability: Evaluate in-service solvent stability for long-term performance.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Analytical or Physical Chemistry, with knowledge of organic chemistry and spectroscopy (average grade B or higher).
  • Fluency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in experimental analytical work.
  • Interest in applied research with industrial relevance.
  • Good presentation skills in Norwegian/Scandinavian languages.

More Scholarships: 20 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarships at Uppsala University, Sweden

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by September 1, 2025. Submit:

• 2-4 page research proposal (including topic, theory, data collection plan, expected outcomes, timeline, and references).
• 1-page motivation letter.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Hydrogen Storage for Maritime and Industrial Sector

This project aims to develop and assess the safety of hydrogen storage systems, emphasizing solid-state storage with magnesium hydride. The focus is on managing heat during hydrogen absorption and desorption to ensure performance and scalability. Key research areas include:

• Experimental Work: Design, build, and test prototype storage systems.
• Thermal Modeling: Use simulations to optimize heat management and system safety.
• Safety Analysis: Evaluate risks and ensure safe operation.
• System Optimization: Enhance storage systems for maritime and industrial applications.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Technology, Process Engineering, or Chemical Engineering (average grade B or higher, completed by July 2025).
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, and energy conversion.
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Familiarity with hydrogen storage technologies, especially metal hydrides.
  • Experience in experimental lab work, thermal measurements, or safety procedures.
  • Skills in numerical modeling (e.g., OpenFoam, MATLAB, Python).
  • Background in process safety or energy storage.

More positions: 10 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities at the University of Oslo, Norway

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 22, 2025. Submit:

• 1-page motivation letter and cover letter.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellows in Management

The PhD program in Management supports a broad range of topics relevant to the faculty’s research groups, including Business Management, Corporate Governance, Digitalization Management, and Sustainability Management, among others. Your project must fit within the program’s scope and contribute to the research areas of at least one group or center. Key aspects include:

• Research Scope: Develop a project aligned with a USN research group or center (e.g., Innovation Management, Work Motivation, or Social Analysis).
• Interdisciplinary Focus: Address management challenges through innovative and scientifically rigorous approaches.
• Project Design: Propose a clear research topic, relevant theory, and a feasible research plan.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in a relevant field for Management (average grade B or higher, completed by the application deadline).
  • Coursework in quantitative and qualitative research methods (minimum Bachelor’s level).
  • Fluency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • For non-European degrees, a GMAT score of 600+ or equivalent GRE score.
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Management within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Strong motivation for research and ability to work independently.
  • Experience in interdisciplinary academic settings.

Check this: Seoul National University Graduate Scholarships 2026

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 17, 2025. Submit:

• 3-5 page project description (research topic, theory, design, and implementation plan).
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• Master’s thesis.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• GMAT/GRE scores (for non-European degrees).
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in TransAIRail

The TransAIRail project combines power engineering and AI to improve the reliability of Norway’s railway power systems, supporting green transportation. Collaborating with BaneNOR, which manages 4,200 km of tracks, you’ll analyze real-time data to reduce maintenance costs and enhance system reliability. Key research areas include:

• Predictive Maintenance: Develop AI/ML models for non-invasive fault prediction.
• Data Sufficiency: Assess if current data is adequate or identify additional data needs.
• Time Series Analysis: Handle time series data for robust AI/ML models.
• System Integration: Evaluate the feasibility of implementing AI models in BaneNOR’s systems.

Check also: 13 Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at Stockholm University for 2025

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Power Engineering, Computer Science (AI focus), or related STEM fields (average grade B or higher, completed by start date).
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; Nordic applicants may use high school diploma; other exemptions apply).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in modeling, programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Julia, JavaScript, DigiSilent Power Factory), or systems thinking.
  • Strong academic or industry experience, including paper publishing.
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research and qualitative/quantitative methods.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 10, 2025. Submit:

• Cover letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas (showing course grades).
• 5-page (max) project description outlining your approach and ideas.
• Master’s thesis and any publications (or GitHub profile).
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Hydropower Generators Securing Electricity Supply and Grid Resilience

Part of the SecurEL Centre, this project focuses on the role of hydropower generators in ensuring a secure and resilient electricity grid, supporting a net-zero-emissions society. Collaborating with a consortium of 42 partners, you’ll address challenges in regional distribution grids. Key research areas include:

• Grid Coordination: Model interactions between power producers and system operators.
• Hydropower Role: Quantify its impact on grid stability and security of supply.
• Security Aspects: Explore energy availability, power capacity, and voltage quality.
• Resilience Analysis: Investigate fault-ride-through, island mode, and black start capabilities.
• Vulnerability Indicators: Develop tools for enhanced situational awareness.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Power Engineering, Computer Science, Control System Engineering, Physics, Environmental Engineering, Mathematics (Operations Research), or Machine Learning (average grade B or higher, completed by start date).
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; Nordic applicants may use high school diploma; other exemptions apply).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in modeling, programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Julia, JavaScript), or control engineering.
  • Strong academic or industry experience, including paper publishing.
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research and systems thinking.

Check also: 13 Fully-Funded PhD Opportunities at the University of Luxembourg

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 4, 2025. Submit:

• Cover letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas (showing course grades).
• 5-page (max) project description outlining your approach and ideas.
• Master’s thesis and any publications (or GitHub profile).
• Three references’ contact details.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Coordinated Flexibility Utilization across TSO and DSO Grid Levels

Part of the SecurEL Centre, this project aims to enhance coordination between Transmission System Operators (TSO) and Distribution System Operators (DSOs) to efficiently use distributed energy resources, supporting a resilient, net-zero-emissions grid. Collaborating with 42 partners, you’ll address grid operation challenges. Key research areas include:

• Distributed Energy Integration: Develop strategies for congestion management.
• Flexibility Markets: Analyze value chains and market designs for ancillary services.
• Grid Tariffs: Explore tariff-based flexibility across grid levels.
• Multi-Level Flexibility: Investigate market-based solutions for TSO and DSO coordination.

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Power Engineering, Computer Science, Control System Engineering, Physics, Environmental Engineering, Mathematics (Operations Research), or Machine Learning (average grade B or higher, completed by start date).
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; Nordic applicants may use high school diploma; other exemptions apply).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in modeling, programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Julia, JavaScript), or systems thinking.
  • Strong academic or industry experience, including paper publishing.
  • Interest in interdisciplinary research and qualitative/quantitative methods.

See also: 14 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities with Project REACT (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network)

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by August 4, 2025. Submit:

• Cover letter and detailed CV.
• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas (showing course grades).
• 5-page (max) project description outlining your approach and ideas.
• Master’s thesis and any publications (or GitHub profile).
• Three references’ contact details.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.

PhD Research Fellow in Pioneering AI and Sustainable Materials for Next-Gen Offshore Wind Turbines

This project aims to revolutionize offshore wind turbine design by creating Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) using AI, systems engineering, and sustainability principles. You’ll tackle challenges like corrosion and extreme marine conditions to improve turbine durability and reduce environmental impact. Key research areas include:

• AI Model Development: Build machine learning models to predict material properties.
• Material Optimization: Design FGMs for durability and fatigue resistance.
• Systems Integration: Align material design with turbine lifecycle needs.
• Sustainability: Create recyclable materials and assess environmental impact.
• Validation: Test solutions for real-world offshore conditions.

See Also: 13 Fully-Funded PhD Positions at KTH Royal Institute of Technology Sweden

Eligibility

• Required:
  • Master’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields.
  • Strong academic record (average grade B or better, including Master’s thesis).
  • Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL 90, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent; exemptions for certain countries).
  • Admission to USN’s PhD program in Technology within 3 months.
• Preferred:
  • Experience in renewable energy, AI, materials science, systems engineering, or sustainability.
  • Strong computational and programming skills.
  • Innovative and collaborative mindset.

Application Process

Apply online via the link provided below by September 1, 2025. Submit:

• Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts/diplomas.
• 1-page motivation letter.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• Any publications and a list of them.
• Three references’ contact details.
• For non-Norwegian degrees, apply for recognition by the Norwegian Directorate of Higher Education and Skills before the deadline.