About NAI
Established in 1962, NAI has been a beacon of knowledge, providing top-tier research, timely information, and comprehensive documentation on Africa for over half a century. As a Swedish government agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NAI stands as a pivotal center for African studies in the Nordic countries, fostering academic excellence, policy research, and global engagement. Our mission is to deepen the understanding of modern African perspectives and societal dynamics among Nordic decision-makers and change agents.
NAI prides itself on its values of involvement, communication, trust, and transparency, fostering a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion. We offer a dynamic intellectual environment, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and a network of scholars spanning the social and natural sciences.
Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated researcher with a keen interest in the economic analysis of contemporary African issues. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with Associate Professor Jörgen Levin and other senior researchers, contributing to the Institute’s diverse research portfolio.
Essential Qualifications
- A Ph.D. in Economics, Development Economics, Development Studies, Political Economy, Global Studies, or International Development, obtained within the last three to five years.
- Demonstrated expertise in economic analysis related to Africa’s development, including engagement with research-based policy initiatives.
- Proficiency in empirical research and quantitative analysis, with advanced programming skills in STATA.
- Strong communication abilities and the capacity to engage effectively in a multicultural environment.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills.
Merit Qualifications
- Familiarity with African household survey data.
- Understanding of the Nordic policy landscape regarding African development.
- Track record of media engagement.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit
- A cover letter highlighting suitability for the position.
- A 1-page statement detailing relevant experiences, particularly in quantitative analysis and STATA.
- A comprehensive CV with a list of peer-reviewed publications.
- One to three relevant peer-reviewed academic publications.
- Contact details for at least two referees.
Conditions of Service
This is a fixed-term two-year position based in Uppsala, Sweden, with a probationary period of 6 months. Salary is negotiable within the Institute’s current salary structure, complemented by attractive benefits for Swedish civil service employees. The preferred starting date is as soon as possible, or by August 2024.
Contact
For inquiries, please reach out to Jörgen Levin (Jorgen.levin@nai.uu.se) or Eleanor Fisher (eleanor.fisher@nai.uu.se), Head of Research. You can also contact Henrik Alfredsson (Saco-S) (henrik.alfredsson@nai.uu.se) for union representation. Call +46 18 471 52 00 or email nai@nai.uu.se for more information.
Apply via our online recruitment system by the closing date: 18 February 2024.
Fostering African Engagement: The Impact of NAI’s Postdoctoral Opportunity
The opportunity offered by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) for a postdoctoral researcher in the field of economic analysis of contemporary African issues is significant for Africans in several ways:
- Representation and Inclusion: NAI’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion underscores the importance of having African perspectives represented in academic and policy research. By encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on fostering representation from diverse African regions, NAI ensures that the voices and experiences of Africans are central to the discourse on African development.
- Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange: The postdoctoral position provides an avenue for African scholars to contribute their expertise and insights to the academic community. Through collaboration with Associate Professor Jörgen Levin and other senior researchers at NAI, African researchers have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building initiatives that can strengthen their skills and networks.
- Policy Impact and Advocacy: By engaging with research-based policy initiatives and having a track record of media engagement, the postdoctoral researcher can play a crucial role in shaping policies and advocating for sustainable development in Africa. This position enables Africans to directly influence decision-making processes and contribute to positive societal change in their home countries and across the continent.
- Networking and Career Development: The dynamic intellectual environment and interdisciplinary research opportunities offered by NAI provide African scholars with a platform to network with experts in the field, collaborate on research projects, and advance their careers in academia, policy, and beyond. The exposure to diverse perspectives and methodologies fosters professional growth and enhances the researcher’s ability to address complex challenges facing Africa.
Overall, the postdoctoral position at NAI serves as a platform for Africans to actively participate in the generation of knowledge, the formulation of policies, and the promotion of sustainable development in Africa. It represents a valuable opportunity for African scholars to contribute meaningfully to their field and to make a positive impact on their communities and societies.
For more details and application visit: Vacancy – The Nordic Africa Institute (uu.se)
The African Research (AR) Index is a comprehensive scholarly directory and database focused explicitly on journal publishers that publish and disseminate African research.
