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The University of Iceland is one of the country's largest employers. We rely on a diverse team of employees to provide quality education and conduct impactful academic research. We aim to foster a vibrant community, enhancing our position as a leading educational institution.

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 Vacancies
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Applications are submitted online on the Icelandic State Recruitment (ISR) website. You can switch the language to English by clicking the flag at the top right corner. If you haven't registered yet, start by creating an account before signing in.

Ph.D. position in Civil Engineering

Applications are open for a full time Ph.D. position in Civil Engineering at the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland. The Ph.D. project is in the field of Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering, with focus on seismic site characterization and quantification of site effects considering the dynamic and liquefaction behavior of Icelandic basalt sand and effects on critical infrastructure. The project is funded for three years by the Doctoral Grants of the University of Iceland Research Fund.The geotechnical conditions in Iceland are unique in many respects, making it extremely difficult to directly apply research findings obtained from foreign geomaterials to local conditions. The cyclic and dynamic properties of Icelandic geomaterials have received limited research attention. The same applies to the effects of soil¿structure interaction (SSI) between foundations and the surrounding soil during earthquakes. The aim of this project is to improve the understanding of these phenomena.The Ph.D. candidate will work on characterizing the dynamic and liquefaction behavior of the local sand and evaluate the seismic site effects and SSI behavior of selected structures considering the local geological and seismic setting. Advanced laboratory and model-scale testing will be used to study the microstructure and the monotonic and cyclic mechanical behavior of the volcanic basalt sand. Non-invasive and invasive geophysical and geotechnical methods will be used for local in-situ site characterization. Subsequently, validated material models and data will be employed to conduct site response simulations and study the 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.

Field of work

  • 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, 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 in civil engineering or a closely related field. The applicant must have completed the degree by the time the position begins.
  • Competent programming skills using Python or MATLAB.
  • Experience with using numerical geotechnical modelling software (e.g., Plaxis, RS2/RS3 or OpenSees) is an advantage. 
  • Experience in geotechnical laboratory testing and/or geophysical in-situ site characterization is an advantage.
  • 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.

Employment is contingent upon the applicant formally applying for PhD studies at the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Iceland and having the application approved by the faculty.

Application process

The expected start of the position will be in Spring 2027, or by agreement.

The following documents must accompany the application:

  • 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.
  • 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 of the outcome once a decision has been made. Applications may remain valid for six months after the application deadline.

In hiring for positions at the University of Iceland, the University's equality policy is taken into account. Attention is also drawn to the University of Iceland's 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

Application deadline is 11.08.2026

For further information contact

Elín Ásta Ólafsdóttir

elinasta@hi.is

Sigurður Erlingsson

sigger@hi.is

Apply now

Doctoral Students in Public Health

Two full-time PhD positions in Public Health Sciences are available at the Centre of Public Health Sciences, University of Iceland. The positions are funded for three years by Rannís (The Icelandic Centre for Research). The projects are carried out in collaboration with the Department of Psychology at Reykjavik University.The PhD projects are part of a large research project, conducted in collaboration with an international team of scientists. The projects focus on the health of residents who experienced repeated seismic activity and threat of volcanic eruptions in Grindavík, as well as risk and resilience factors associated with mental and physical health. One PhD project will focus on children and the other on adults.

Field of work

  • Research the effects of natural disasters on health and associated risk and resilience factors
  • Participate in preparing and conducting the study, including data collection via questionnaires, population-based databases, and qualitative interviews
  • Data analysis
  • Writing scientific articles and disseminating research findings in collaboration with national and international research communities.

Qualification requirements

  • Master's degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Psychology, or related fields. The applicant must have completed the degree by the time the position begins.
  • Experience in data analysis using the statistics program R or comparable programs
  • Research experience in the field is an advantage
  • Good written and spoken English skills
  • Good cooperation and communication skills
  • Demonstrates independence and initiative in carrying out work responsibilities

Employment is contingent upon the applicant formally applying for Public Health Sciences or Epidemiology, as agreed with supervisors at the University of Iceland and having the application approved by the faculty, see PhD studies - The School of Health sciences.

Application process

The positions are expected to start in September or by agreement.

Salaries are in accordance with the current collective agreement between the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs and the Association of University Teachers.

The following documents must accompany the application:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter (max. two pages) describing how the applicant meets the qualification requirements stated in the advertisement and what they consider they can contribute to the position
  • Certified copies of diplomas
  • Contact information for referees
  • List of publications
  • Applicants are also invited to submit a PDF version of their master's thesis (in any language), as well as other relevant publications (maximum of five documents).

All applications will be answered, and applicants will be informed of the outcome once a decision has been made. Applications may remain valid for six months after the application deadline.

In hiring for positions at the University of Iceland, the University's equality policy is taken into account. Attention is also drawn to the University of Iceland's 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

Application deadline is 14.08.2026

For further information contact

Edda Björk Þórðardóttir

eddat@hi.is

Þórhildur Halldórsdóttir

thorhildurh@ru.is

Apply now

Ph.D. position at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering

The University of Iceland invites applications for a 77% PhD student position in Electrical and Computer Engineering, specializing in medical image analysis. The position is funded by the PhD grants fund of the University of Iceland for three years.This project aims to use a novel contrast enhanced ultrasound-based method, called subharmonic aided pressure estimation (SHAPE), to evaluate and map pressures in the body thereby potentially leading to easier diagnosis and treatment monitoring.The student will work under the guidance of Dr. Valgerður G. Halldórsdóttir, assistant professor at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Iceland. The research group specializes in clinical ultrasound and works closely with international research groups in the field of ultrasound in medicine and medical imaging and the application of subharmonic aided pressure estimation.

Field of work

  • Analysis and processing of ultrasound data and images 
  • Investigation of novel biomarkers 
  • International research collaboration with a leading groups in the field of ultrasound and medical imaging 
  • Dissemination of research results such as writing academic articles and presenting research findings at local and international conferences 
  • Reporting on research work in collaboration with supervisor

Qualification requirements

  • Master's degree in relevant fields, including (but not limiting to): Biomedical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science or Medical Physics. The applicant must have completed the degree by the time the position begins.
  • Proficiency in data analysis, programming, signal and medical image processing is preferred.
  • Experience in medical/clinical ultrasound is preferred.
  • Experience in contrast enhanced ultrasound is an advantage.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team.

Employment is contingent upon the applicant formally applying for PhD studies at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Iceland and having the application approved by the faculty.

Application process

The expected starting date is December 1st, 2026 at the latest.

The following documents must accompany the application:

  • Curriculum vitae (relevant work experience, programming skills, and a list of publications (if any))
  • Statement for research interests and strengths as well as provide a statement explaining why the candidate would like to join this project and what their contribution could be
  • Cover letter
  • Certified copies of diplomas (BSc and MSc) along with course listings with grade information (in English)
  • A digital copy of the master's thesis text (preferably in English if available) and/or any publications or previous theses that the student has written
  • Contact information for two referees and their relationship with the applicant

All applications will be answered, and applicants will be informed of the outcome once a decision has been made. Applications may remain valid for six months after the application deadline.

In hiring for positions at the University of Iceland, the University's equality policy is taken into account. Attention is also drawn to the University of Iceland's 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

Application deadline is 10.08.2026

For further information contact

Valgerður Guðrún Halldórsdóttir

valgud@hi.is

Apply now

PhD position in Physical Chemistry

A full-time PhD position in Physical Chemistry is available at the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland. The project Advancing Electrolyte Chemistry for Rechargeable Calcium Batteriess is funded for three years through the University of Iceland Doctoral Grant Fund and focuses on next-generation battery technologies and specifically on the development of electrolytes for rechargeable calcium metal batteries.Calcium metal batteries are a promising beyond-lithium energy storage technology due to calcium's natural abundance, low cost, and favourable electrochemical properties. However, reversible calcium plating and stripping remain poorly understood and are highly dependent on electrolyte chemistry. This project aims to establish fundamental design principles for active calcium electrolytes by systematically linking calcium-ion solvation structure, solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) composition, and deposition kinetics. The project combines electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and interfacial science to identify the key properties that determine whether an electrolyte can enable efficient and reversible calcium plating and stripping. The research will provide fundamental insights into multivalent battery chemistries and establish design principles for next-generation calcium batteries, contributing to the development of sustainable and cost-effective energy storage technologies that reduce dependence on lithium and other critical raw materials.The project is supervised by Dr. Anna B. Gunnarsdóttir, Assistant Professor in Physical Chemistry at the University of Iceland. The research group is based at the Science Institute, University of Iceland, and the PhD student will work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment alongside other PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and international collaborators. The position provides opportunities for participation in international conferences and collaborations with leading researchers in battery science.

Field of work

  • Develop and investigate new electrolyte systems for rechargeable calcium metal batteries.
  • Study the relationship between calcium-ion solvation structure, solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, and electrochemical behaviour.
  • Perform electrochemical experiments and analyse electrochemical data.
  • Apply spectroscopic techniques, including Raman spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), to investigate electrolyte structure and properties.
  • Analyse and interpret research results and disseminate them through publications in international peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences.

Qualification requirements

  • MSc in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science or related fields. The applicant must have completed the degree by the time the position begins.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in written and spoken English.
  • Knowledge of electrochemistry and battery chemistry is an advantage.
  • Programming skills for scientific data analysis (e.g. Python or R) are an advantage.

Employment is contingent upon the applicant formally applying for PhD studies at the Faculty of Physical Sciences at the School of Engineering and Natural Sciences and having the application approved by the faculty.

Application process

The starting date is negotiable but preferred if the applicant could start January 1st. 2027.

The application should include:

  • A cover letter (max. one page) describing the scientific background, research interests, and motivation for pursuing this PhD project
  • Grade transcripts (BSc and MSc)
  • Evidence of English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent)
  • CV including list of publications (max. three pages)
  • Names and full contact information of two professional referees (including their relationship to the applicant).

All applications will be answered, and applicants will be informed of the outcome once a decision has been made. Applications may remain valid for six months after the application deadline.

In hiring for positions at the University of Iceland, the University's equality policy is taken into account. Attention is also drawn to the University of Iceland's 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

Application deadline is 31.08.2026

For further information contact

Anna Bergljót Gunnarsdóttir

annabg@hi.is

Apply now
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