International philosophy researchers can now apply for a two-year, tax-free postdoctoral scholarship at Umeå University in Sweden. The selected researcher will receive SEK 720,000 to investigate why causal reasoning is valuable in science and everyday life.
Scholarship Quick Review Box
- Status: Applications open
- Eligible applicants: International and Swedish researchers
- Academic level: Postdoctoral research
- Funding: SEK 720,000 tax-free
- Duration: Two years, full-time
- Research field: Philosophy
- Age limit: No age restriction announced
- English requirement: Written and spoken proficiency required; no specific IELTS score stated
- Deadline: October 7, 2026
What Does the Umeå Postdoctoral Scholarship Cover?
The Kempe Foundations-funded scholarship provides SEK 720,000 over two years, equivalent to approximately SEK 30,000 per month. It is normally paid in four instalments and is described by the university as tax-free.
The scholarship begins on January 1, 2027, or another mutually agreed date. This is a scholarship rather than a standard employment contract, and the successful applicant must be physically present in Umeå to participate regularly in seminars and departmental research activities.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you hold a PhD in philosophy, an equivalent foreign doctoral degree or equivalent competence. Your background should be in metaphysics, philosophy of science, causation or a closely related area.
Priority will be given to applicants who completed their doctorate within three years before the deadline. An older PhD may still be accepted where documented special circumstances exist, including illness, parental leave, military service or relevant professional assignments.
What Will You Research?
Your research plan must connect with the project “Why is Causation So Useful?” It may examine how causal reasoning can reflect objective features of the world while also being influenced by human cognition. The selected scholar will join research groups led by Christian Loew and Bram Vaassen.
How Will Applications Be Assessed?
Umeå University will primarily assess your capacity to conduct and publish internationally competitive research. Reviewers will also examine your research plan’s connection with the project and your fit with the department’s existing research environment.
How to Apply
- Prepare your application in English or Swedish.
- Ensure uploaded documents are in Word or PDF format.
- Develop a focused research plan connected with causation.
- Submit everything through the official Umeå University application portal.
Application Deadline: The last date to apply for the Umeå University Postdoctoral Scholarship in Philosophy is October 7, 2026.
