PhD Position in Theology

Uppsala University

Department of Theology, Uppsala University

Published: 15 Oct 2025

Overview

The Faculty of Theology at Uppsala University is one of nine faculties and the oldest faculty at the University. It is independent of any faith community, and the religious affiliation of students, research students, lecturers, or staff is not relevant.

The Department of Theology is the largest institution for education and research in Theology and Religious Studies in Sweden, offering a creative environment for research or degree studies. This PhD position focuses on Buddhism studies within the specialization of History of Religions and Global Christianity.

Starting Date: 27 August 2026

Duties

• Devote the majority of time to postgraduate study and research
• Up to 20% may involve teaching or administrative duties at the Department
• Admission to postgraduate studies is required; the applicant’s ability to successfully complete doctoral studies is decisive

Regulations governing university admissions are in Högskoleförordningen, chapter 7 §§ 34–36 and chapter 5 §§ 1–7.

Eligibility

General Requirements:

• At least 240 higher education credits, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level, or equivalent

Specific Requirements for History of Religions and World Christianity:

• At least 30 higher education credits in religious studies at first or second cycle
• A degree project of at least 15 HE credits at second cycle specializing in History of Religions and World Christianity

Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

1. Application form – Admission to third-cycle (postgraduate) studies
2. Financial plan – Specify form of funding and name of a supervising professor or lecturer
3. Official transcripts – In English or Swedish, including degree certificates if applicable
4. Research proposal – Max 6 pages (plus one page for references if needed) including:
   • Aim
   • Research questions
   • Method
   • Theoretical framework
   • Relation to earlier research
   • Material for the future thesis
   • Proposed supervisor
5. Master’s Thesis – In Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, English, German, or French. If another language: original, English translation, and cover letter confirming accuracy
6. Feasibility assessment – Identify potential risks and suggest alternative materials for high-risk projects

Note: Applications missing any of these documents or without a named supervisor will not be considered.

Funding and Attendance

• Full funding for up to four years
• Must reside in Sweden with a valid residence permit
• PhD candidates are expected to participate in the research environment, ideally attending at least three days per week

Notification of admission: Beginning of June 2026

Employment Details

• Type of employment: Temporary position (Higher Education Ordinance, chapter 5 § 7)
• Scope: 100%
• Starting date: 27 August 2026 or as agreed
• Placement: Uppsala

Contact:

• Director of Doctoral Studies: Mohammad Fazlhashemi
• Email: mohammad.fazlhashemi@teol.uu.se
• Phone: +46 18 471 22 27

Union Representatives:

• ST/TCO: tco@fackorg.uu.se
• Seko Universitetsklubben: seko@uadm.uu.se
• Saco-rådet: saco@uadm.uu.se

Reference Number: UFV-PA 2025/3114

Last Application Date: 13 February 2026

About Uppsala University

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. It employs over 7,600 staff and educates 53,000 students, with the goal of conducting high-quality education and research that make a difference in society.

More Information: Working at Uppsala University

Note: The position may be subject to security vetting. Applicants must pass the vetting process to be eligible.