Umeå University is one of Sweden's largest educational institutions with over 41,500 students and approximately 4,600 employees. The university offers a diverse range of high-quality programs and world-leading research in several scientific fields. It was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 was made, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. At Umeå University, everything is close by. Our cohesive campus makes it easy to meet, collaborate, and exchange knowledge, which fosters a dynamic and open culture.
The societal transformation and major green investments we see in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, it is about conducting research about – and within – a society in transition. But also about delivering education for regions that need to expand quickly and sustainably. This is simply where the future is being created.
Are you interested in learning more? Read more about Umeå University as a workplace.
Description
The Department of Political Science is seeking students who want to work as research assistants in political science.
The position is 20% of full-time, starting October 1, 2026 or by agreement, and is limited until January 17, 2027.
Duties
The work will be conducted within the infrastructure project Representative Democracy Data Archive (repdem.org). The research project studies political parties and governments in parliamentary systems. The work includes assisting researchers within the research project with various tasks, primarily by collecting, processing, and documenting data, as well as general assistance work.
The content and conditions of the work tasks may change over time. The work is performed at the Department of Political Science.
Eligibility
Employment as a research assistant is governed by Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (HF). Only those admitted to education at the basic or advanced level may be employed as a research assistant (Chapter 5, Section 10 HF).
Requirements
You must be a student at Umeå University, preferably at the Department of Political Science or in related subjects.
Good knowledge of Excel or other spreadsheet software, information research, and report writing. Good knowledge of English is also required.
Other Qualifications
We are looking for someone with a structured work approach, meticulous in execution, with good collaboration skills and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.
Experience working with assistant tasks in research projects is particularly valuable. Knowledge of programming and quantitative analysis is also an asset.
Terms
Start date October 1, 2026 or by agreement. The position is 20% of full-time during the period October 1, 2026 to January 17, 2027.
For research assistant positions, employment can be for a maximum of one year at a time, but no more than three years in total. Employment must be conducted in parallel with studies.
Umeå University applies salary settings according to the agreed salary scale for research assistants.
Application
Your application must contain:
Personal letter with motivation for why you are applying for the position (max 1 page)
CV/list of qualifications
Current transcript of your study results from Ladok
Any other merits you wish to reference
Contact information for at least two references from whom recommendation letters may be requested
You apply through the recruitment system Varbi.
Applications must be submitted no later than September 28, 2026.
Umeå University wants to offer an equal and inclusive environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives forms the basis for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for this position.
To staffing and recruitment companies and to you who are sales representatives: We politely but firmly decline direct contact from staffing and recruitment companies as well as sellers of additional job advertisements.