Senior Researcher in RRI/Ethics/STS

NORCE is seeking an experienced and highly motivated researcher with expertise in Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI), applied ethics, or Science and technology studies (STS) to join the Gene Technology, Environment and Society research group (GEMS) in NORCE, located in Tromsø.

We are looking for a candidate with solid research experience, strong analytic capacity and the ability to collaborate across scientific fields. The position is expected to play a central role in strengthening our research in RRI, ethics and sustainability connected to the field of gene/bio-technology.

The position will be placed in GEMS research group, Dept. of Biotechnology and Circular Economy in the Climate and Environment division.

The division has approximately 160 researchers conducting both basic and applied research on past, present and future climate systems, as well as research and development for sustainable use and management of the environment and natural resources.

The Department of Biotechnology and Circular Economy consists of three research groups (Industrial Biotechnology, Marin Biotechnology and GEMS) and contributes with new bio-solutions that are motivated by more efficient utilization of resources, and benefits to the environment, society, and the economy. The position is expected to work across groups to utilise synergies between the research groups, as well as building core competence in GEMS.

The research group GEMS have 10 employees located in Tromsø. The group has a specialized laboratory infrastructure to facilitate research and innovation with an environmental consciousness. The group has status as the National Competence Centre in Biosafety, with the aim to advance knowledge related to gene editing, genetically modified organisms, risk assessments, sustainability, societal implications and ethics.

The research group coordinates and participate in national and EU research projects covering: CRISPR and genome editing, -omics methodologies, microbial biotechnology, and environmental antimicrobial resistance, RRI connected to CRISPR and converging technologies, and sustainability assessments. GEMS is an interdisciplinarity working environment where biotechnology intersects with social science, ethics, and sustainability science. The position offers an unique opportunity to work interdisciplinary across fields to strengthen research results and impact, and to influence to responsible development of emerging technologies.

The successful candidate is expected to contribute into various interdisciplinary projects and to develop new research ideas and lead grant applications. In addition, to collaborate closely with biotechnology researchers and external partners to ensure societal dimensions are integrated throughout project lifecycles.

Required Qualifications and Attributes

• PhD in relevant fields as RRI, STS, social sciences, applied ethics, innovation studies or related interdisciplinary social sciences

• Documented experience in one or more of the following areas: Design and implementing RRI activities in projects; ethical, societal or sustainability assessments;

• Stakeholder engagement, public dialogue, co-creation processes; qualitative methods (interviews, workshops, questionnaires).

• Strong interest in biotechnology and emerging technologies

• Proficiency in both written and oral English and one of the Scandinavian languages.

Additional experience considered advantageous is one or more of the following

• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks, or environment governance

• Experience in EU and Research Council of Norway project acquisition

• Established network within RRI, STS, ethics or technology assessment communities

• Experience working in interdisciplinary scientific environments

We offer

• A permanent senior research position in an internationally oriented institute

• A highly interdisciplinary research environment in the research group and at NORCE

• Opportunities to shape responsible innovation practices in cutting‑edge technology fields

• Support for professional development, publications and project leadership

• A stimulating and professional working environment with a high degree of independence

• A workplace in beautiful Tromsø, surrounded by unique natural environments

• Flexible working hours

• Salary by agreement

• Good welfare benefits

• Norwegian language training to all new employees with a non-Norwegian background

How to apply

We hope you would like to contribute as a driving force for positive and sustainable development!
Please submit your application electronically by clicking on “Apply for the position”.

• A motivation letter describing your (research) interests and relevant experience

• Curriculum Vitae (including publication list)

• Copies of relevant diplomas

Contact: If you have questions about the position, please contact Research Director Odd-Gunnar Wikmark (ogwi@norceresearch.no).

At NORCE, we are committed to ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply for available positions regardless of gender, age, disability, or ethnic background.

Candidates are expected to openly offer relevant information about themselves during the recruitment process. Furthermore, one can expect background checks to be conducted on candidates in the final phase of the recruitment process. NORCE uses external actors to carry out such background checks or security interviews.