Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Global Health

Applications are invited for a full-time three year position (100%) as Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Health and Society. The Postdoctor will work in an interdisciplinary environment focusing on societal aspects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is an increasing global threat. Unregulated production, export, sales and use in emerging economic powers such as India are connected to regions of escalating and largely under-regulated use in Africa. This Postdoc project aims to map the conditions for the flow of antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones, from India to Africa, exploring regulation, production and export of antibiotics in India, on the one hand, and perceptions of resistance among Indian producers and regulating bodies, on the other.

Starting date: 15th September 2019, at the latest

The postdoctor will work on a project entitled Generics across the Ocean: Production, regulation and export of Indian antibiotics for African markets. The project aims to develop a broad social, economic, and political understanding of Indian antibiotics, and insights into to the dynamics and mechanisms of export of antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones, to East African markets. He/she will explore regulation and production of antibiotics in India, investigate marketing and export of antibiotics for African markets by Indian producers, and investigate perceptions of resistance among Indian producers and regulating bodies. The project will be carried out through fieldwork in relevant sites of the booming pharmaceutical production in India. Potential candidates should consult the project description before applying.

The postdoctoral fellow will be part of a multidisciplinary team of anthropologists, physicians and historians.

Tasks:

• 6-10 months of in-depth fieldwork in India. It will include in-depth interviews, informal conversations and text analyses
• work closely with local actors in both the pharmaceutical industry and trade (small and larger entrepreneurs and businesses involved in with African markets), as well as official regulators
• write three articles in high-profile journals
• participate in interdisciplinary co-authored publications as well as in conferences outside of their own discipline
• establish and organize the activities of a research group at the Institute, which will serve as an organizational umbrella to bring together all research activities - international and national - on AMR across the departments at the Institute for Health and Society 

The main purpose of the Postdoctoral fellowship is to qualify researchers for work in higher academic positions within their disciplines.

• applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree, in the social science, the humanities or global health. Candidates with a background from the health sciences might be considered if they have documented experience from critical global health research. The doctoral dissertation must be submitted for evaluation by the closing date. Appointment is dependent on the public defense of the doctoral thesis being approved.
• fluent oral and written communication skills in English. Other relevant languages is a strong advantage.
• demonstrated ability to publish high quality research is not a requirement, but will be an advantage.

• You should be highly motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team, and have excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to engage with a diverse range of disciplines and organizations.

• salary NOK 515 200 - 576 100 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow (position code 1352)
• funds for research, travel, conference participation and dissemination, books and equipment
• academically stimulating working environment including the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary environment
• attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo's family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
• possibilities for international exchange

The application must include

• cover letter (statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interest)
• a more elaborate research proposal based on the brief existing project description, including a specification of research focus, theoretical perspectives, methodological strategies, and progress and publication plan (3-4 pages).
• CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activity) copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• A complete list of publications
• Examples of 2 written works that the applicant wishes to be considered by the evaluation committee.
• List of 2-3 academic references (name, institution, e-mail, telephone number and relation to candidate)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. International applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications, the project description, and the quality of the project as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged, either in person in Oslo or via Skype.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one specified period at the same institution.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo is an equal opportunity employer and strives for diversity.

Questions regarding the project and position: Associate Professor Dr Heidi Fjeld

 Practical information regarding the application process: HR Advisor Åse Ragnhild Halfstad

Phone number: 22 85 05 08