The NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship offers a fully funded doctoral position at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, focusing on early-phase innovation and idea development within energy research groups. This three-year research fellowship examines how ideas emerge and are co-created in academic and institutional settings, with case studies from NTNU Energy’s innovation ecosystem. Successful candidates will conduct qualitative research, collaborate with industry, and spend one to two semesters abroad.
NTNU is a broad-based university with a strong profile in technical and natural sciences and professional education. Headquartered in Trondheim, the university employs 9,000 staff and educates 43,000 students. The Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, where the position is hosted, conducts research at the intersection of technology, strategy, and management, promoting sustainable value creation through innovation, entrepreneurship, and business development.
Benefits of NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026
- Exciting and international professional environment with opportunities for competence development
- Opportunity for close collaboration with industry, business and public institutions
- Active PhD environment with approximately 30 other PhD candidates at the department
- Career guidance and follow-up during the doctoral period
- Open and inclusive working environment with committed colleagues
- Operating resources to carry out the project
- Favorable terms in the Norwegian State Pension Fund
- Employee benefits and perks
Eligibility Criteria for the NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026
- Completed master’s degree in entrepreneurship and innovation or equivalent fields
- Weighted average grade for the last two years of the master’s degree must be B or better (NTNU grading scale)
- Applicants in the final phase of the master’s program may apply and can be offered a position subject to satisfactory results
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Knowledge of and use of qualitative research methods is an advantage
- Personal suitability for participation in research teams, independence, work capacity, enthusiasm, and ability to contribute to a good research environment are emphasized
How to Apply for the NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026
- Submit application and all attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no
- Include a motivation letter explaining your interest in pursuing a doctoral degree
- Attach a short project outline (up to 3 pages) describing planned theme, issues, choice of theory and method, and expected results
- Provide CV, diplomas, and certificates
- Include any scientific work (not the master’s thesis) and, for joint works, a brief explanation of your contribution
- If education was taken abroad, attach documentation of scope and quality (e.g., diploma supplement)
- If available, attach a statement from HK-dir
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this fully funded doctoral position.
What is the NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship?
It is a fully funded, three-year PhD position at NTNU focusing on early-phase innovation and idea development within energy research groups. The candidate will study how ideas arise and are co-created, working with case studies from NTNU Energy.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Applicants must have a completed master’s degree in entrepreneurship, innovation, or equivalent fields with a grade average of B or better in the last two years. Those in the final master’s phase may also apply, and proficiency in English is required.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
Benefits include a salary of NOK 550,800 per year, an international research environment, close industry collaboration, career guidance, operating resources, Norwegian State Pension Fund membership, and employee perks.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is August 23, 2026. All applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no before this date.
How do I apply for the position?
Submit your application electronically through Jobbnorge.no with a motivation letter, a project outline (max 3 pages), CV, diplomas, any scientific work, and documentation of education if taken abroad.
Is knowledge of qualitative research methods necessary?
It is an advantage but not a strict requirement. The position involves qualitative research, so familiarity with such methods is beneficial.
Can I apply if I have not yet completed my master’s degree?
Yes, applicants in the final phase of their master’s program are encouraged to apply. A job offer may be made conditional on satisfactory completion of the degree.
Where will the work be located?
The workplace is in Trondheim, Norway. Physical presence at the institution is required for daily academic and social interaction.
What personal qualities are emphasized in the selection process?
Great importance is placed on personal suitability for teamwork, independence, work capacity, enthusiasm, and the ability to contribute to a positive research environment.
Is there an international exchange component?
The department values international contact and supports spending 1–2 semesters at a foreign educational institution during the fellowship period.
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