Application Deadline: 28 August, 2026
Are you passionate about climate action, sustainable development, and the future of global energy systems? Lund University (Lund University PhD in Sustainability Science 2027) in Sweden is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position in Sustainability Science, offering a competitive monthly salary while you pursue your doctoral studies.
This prestigious opportunity is hosted by the Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS) and is part of an internationally funded research project examining how finance influences fair and inclusive energy transitions across the world. Successful applicants will work alongside leading researchers in Sweden and Canada on one of today’s most important sustainability challenges.
Scholarship Overview
| Details | Information |
| Host University | Lund University |
| Host Country | Sweden |
| Department | Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS) |
| Programme | PhD in Sustainability Science |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Salaried Doctoral Position) |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Study Mode | Full-time |
| Eligible Applicants | International applicants from all countries |
| Application Deadline | 28 August 2026 |
About Lund University
Established in 1666, Lund University is consistently ranked among Europe’s top research institutions. Home to more than 46,000 students and over 8,000 staff members, the university has earned a global reputation for excellence in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary education.
The successful doctoral candidate will become part of LUCSUS, an internationally respected research centre focused on solving complex sustainability issues through collaboration across multiple disciplines.
About the PhD Research Project
The doctoral project investigates the role financial systems play in accelerating—or slowing down—the transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources.
Rather than focusing only on renewable technologies, the research explores broader questions such as:
- How financial institutions shape energy transitions.
- Policies that encourage fair and equitable decarbonization.
- Climate finance and investment decisions.
- Social justice within energy transformation.
- Governance of sustainable development.
The project forms part of an international research collaboration funded through the prestigious FORMAS research programme.
What You’ll Receive
Successful candidates will enjoy several benefits, including:
- Fully funded four-year PhD employment.
- Competitive monthly salary under Swedish doctoral employment regulations.
- No tuition fees.
- Opportunity to conduct internationally recognized research.
- Collaboration with researchers from Sweden and Canada.
- Access to world-class research facilities.
- Professional development and academic networking opportunities.
- Employment benefits available to doctoral staff at Lund University.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) relevant to Sustainability Science or a related discipline.
- Strong academic background in environmental studies, sustainability, social sciences, economics, geography, political science, development studies, or similar fields.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Interest in interdisciplinary sustainability research.
Knowledge of Scandinavian languages is considered an advantage but is not required.
Required Application Documents
Applicants are expected to submit:
- Cover Letter (maximum 2,000 words)
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Academic degree certificates
- Official academic transcripts
- Master’s thesis (or equivalent research work)
- Bachelor’s thesis (where applicable)
- Contact details of three professional referees
Reference letters are not required during the initial application stage.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through Lund University’s official recruitment portal before the deadline.
Official Application Page:
Apply via Lund University’s recruitment portal
Important Deadline
Application Deadline: 28 August 2026
Late applications are typically not considered, so applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit all required documents well before the closing date.
Why Choose Lund University?
Studying at Lund University gives doctoral researchers access to:
- A globally recognized research environment.
- Strong international collaborations.
- Excellent academic supervision.
- Competitive employee benefits.
- A vibrant student community in one of Sweden’s leading university cities.
- Opportunities to contribute to research with real-world policy impact.
For aspiring sustainability researchers seeking a funded doctoral opportunity in Europe, this programme offers an exceptional platform to build an international academic career while addressing one of the defining issues of our time.
