Vacancies

Field of work

The geological setting of Iceland is characterized by active volcanism and moderate to high seismicity. The local soil deposits have largely been created in catastrophic events, with subglacial eruptions forming vast layers of basaltic tephra. Hence, the local soils are comprised of highly irregular grains with intra-particle voids, often loosely compacted and prone to liquefaction. However, as an untraditional material in modern geotechnology, the dynamic and liquefaction behavior of Icelandic basalt sand and the associated seismic soil-structure interaction (SSI) characteristics are still poorly understood. 

The Ph.D. candidate will work on characterizing the dynamic behavior of the local sand and evaluate the seismic performance and SSI behavior of selected structures considering the local geological and seismic setting. Emphasis will be on advanced laboratory testing to study the microstructure and the monotonic and cyclic mechanical behavior of the volcanic basalt sand. Subsequently, results of model-scale centrifuge tests and advanced numerical analysis will be used to study the seismic response of prototype structures for different scenarios. Hence, the project integrates advanced element-scale, model-scale and in-situ testing with state-of-the-art numerical modelling.

The project will be carried out using facilities at the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Iceland. The Ph.D. thesis work will be supervised jointly by Dr. Elin Asta Olafsdottir and Dr. Sigurdur Erlingsson. 

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth analysis of the current literature, identify and adapt appropriate methods and models
• Fieldwork to collect soil samples and conduct in-situ testing
• Investigate experimentally and numerically the microstructure, mechanical and liquefaction behavior of Icelandic basalt sand
• Develop, validate and implement constitutive numerical modelling methods that are suited to describe the properties of the local soils and the seismic and SSI behavior of structures embedded in it, addressing current limitations
• Carry out research of high quality within the framework described above
• Present research findings at seminars, local and international conferences and in peer-reviewed scientific journal articles
• Contributions to M.Sc. student supervision and collaborative projects
• Synthesize research outcomes in a doctoral thesis

Qualification requirements

• A master's degree (M.Sc. degree or equivalent) in civil engineering or a closely related field.
• Competent programming skills using Python or MATLAB. 
• Familiarity with numerical geotechnical modelling software (e.g., Plaxis, RS2/RS3 or OpenSees) is an advantage. 
• Experience in geotechnical laboratory testing is an advantage.
• Have the ability to work on challenging tasks and to show strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently in a structured way and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in English, both spoken and written. Knowledge of Icelandic is an advantage.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, and to clearly communicate research outcomes in writing and orally.

The hiring is contingent on the candidate applying formally for the Ph.D. program at the University of Iceland at the corresponding department and that the application is approved by the faculty.

Application process

Work on the project is expected to commence in February 2026.

Applications must include:

• A Curriculum Vitae (CV) stating academic background, relevant work experience and other knowledge, and a list of publications (if any).
• A letter of motivation (max. 2 pages) stating the applicant's research interests, what the applicant has to offer in designing and executing the project and the applicant's expectations for the doctoral study.
• Certified academic transcripts and diplomas (both for bachelor's and master's degrees), including course listings with grade information (in English or Icelandic). Documentation of a completed master's degree must be presented before taking up the position.
• Copy of the applicant's master's thesis and, if any, prior publications that are relevant to the project. Applicants that are enrolled in a master's degree program at the time of the application may submit a draft version of their thesis. 
• Names and full contact information of two professional referees (including information on their relationship with the applicant).
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent test results).

All applications will be answered, and applicants will be informed about the appointment when a decision has been made. Applications are valid in the system for 6 months after the application deadline. 

Appointments to positions at the University of Iceland are made in consideration of the Equality Action Plan of the University of Iceland.

The University of Iceland has a special Language Policy . 

Since 1911, the University of Iceland has been a leading institution for business and societal progress in Iceland. It is a forward-looking research university and an active participant in international scientific collaboration.

The University of Iceland is the largest university in the country, offering nearly 400 programs at the undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels. Approximately 14,000 students are enrolled, including over 2,000 international students.

More than 1,800 staff members work at the University of Iceland. The university emphasizes attracting a diverse community of employees and students to an international academic environment, where academic freedom, professionalism, equality, diversity, and inclusion are prioritized.

About the University of Iceland

Schools, faculties and interdisciplinary studies

International Staff Services

Application deadline

For further information contact

Sigurður Erlingsson

sigger@hi.is

Elín Ásta Ólafsdóttir

elinasta@hi.is

Apply now

Field of work

• Collection and analysis of written records on the cultural role of shellfish in Iceland
• Integration of results with data from other parts of the project
• Dissemination of research results with an emphasis on peer reviewed articles
• Participation in international meetings and conferences     

Qualification requirements

• A PhD-degree in Cultural Studies or a related field, such as ethnology or history 
• Knowledge of and interest in Icelandic culture, sustainability and blue economies is an advantage
• Experience of multidisciplinary and international research projects is an advantage
• Initiative and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team
• Fluency in written and spoken Icelandic and English

Application process

Starting date is 15 February 2026 or earliest thereafter.

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae
• List of publications. The applicant must list up to eight of their most important publications, in relation to this position.
• A letter of motivation in English (one page) outlining the applicant¿s interest in the field and how they intend to conduct their research within the project¿s framework 
• Certificates of education and academic achievements
• Contact information of two referees, emails and phone numbers

All applications will be answered, and applicants will be informed about the appointment when a decision has been made. Applications are stored for six months after the application deadline.

Appointments to positions at the University of Iceland are made in consideration of the Equality Action Plan of the University of Iceland. The University of Iceland has a special Language Policy.

 About the University of Iceland 

Schools, faculties and interdisciplinary studies 

International Staff Services 

Furhter information about The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute

Application deadline

For further information contact

Auður Aðalsteinsdóttir

audurada@hi.is

Apply now