The Nordic Africa Institute currently invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the research project The Space and Role of Political Science in the Evolving Democratic Transformation in Africa.  

Closing date for applications is 31 January 2019.

Job description

The postdoctoral candidate will be involved in the research project “The Space and Role of Political Science in the Evolving Democratic Transformation in Africa.” The Postdoctoral will work closely with Professor Liisa Laakso.

Project description

Today universities are under an increasing pressure to show the relevance and societal impact of their research and education for the society. Political science, whose roots as an academic discipline are connected to empirical research of liberal multi-party political systems involving also critical thinking, is particularly interesting in this regard, and even more so in societies experiencing political transitions like the ones on the African continent. Political science can have an impact for the legitimacy, functioning and consolidation of the political systems. The project will first analyze the profile of political science research and education in African political systems with different levels of democratization: What is studied and taught about political systems in Africa? The resources of political science? The employment of political science graduates? Secondly the project will look at the visibility of political science in Africa: Do political scientists feature in public discussion and media? Do they contribute to preparatory work on electoral laws, constitutional changes etc.? Do they cooperate with political parties?

Qualifications

• A PhD in a social science discipline preferably in Political Sciences, Sociology, Social science statistics or Anthropology
• Research interest and expertise in statistics and higher education, research and innovation policies
• Strong research skills and a good publication record
  
• Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English
  
• Excellent communication skills
  
• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills
  
• Knowledge in French, Portuguese or Swahili will be an added advantage
  
• Experience of work on Africa-related issues will be an added advantage

The application

The application should contain:
A. A complete CV with a list of scientific publications where it is clearly indicated which publications are formally considered as peer reviewed.
B. Three of the applicant’s own peer review publications (in three copies each if print copies are sent) relating to the proposed area of research.
C. The names and addresses (phone, fax, e-mail) of at least two referees.
As part of the recruitment process, shortlisted candidates will be invited to present their proposed research projects for the Nordic Africa Institute.