We invite applications for a PhD position that explores how Generative Artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies are transforming the practices of writing for publication in science.
About us
You will be part of the Division for Language and Communication at the Department of Communication and Learning in Science, and a member of our graduate school Communication and Learning in STEM. The division’s research is situated at the intersection of higher education pedagogy, communication pedagogy, applied linguistics, and diversity and internationalisation studies.
The advertised position will be located at the intersection of our two research themes:
- Digital Learning and Teaching, and
- Writing in doctoral education, scientific writing, and science communication.
The division offers ample opportunities for collaboration and networking, both within Chalmers and through our strong national and international research networks. As a doctoral student, you will be encouraged to take an active role in this vibrant environment, shaping your project in dialogue with ongoing research and interdisciplinary collaborations.
About the research project
Writing for publication is undergoing rapid transformation. Generative Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the writing processes, the role of audiences and reviewers, and the ways in which scholars construct their writerly identities. This creates a need for research that investigates writing for publication as it is currently practised, and how it is being reshaped by technological developments.
This PhD project will focus on investigating issues such as:
- How multimodal and AI-mediated practices shape knowledge construction
- How evolving practices affect scholarly identity, research integrity, and public trust in science
- The ethical challenges arising from the use of AI for writing, reviewing, or disseminating science
- How training in writing for publication can foster ethical writers—not just ethical writing—equipping researchers with reflexivity and responsibility in their practices
We welcome original and creative proposals that address parts of this broad arena. Possible approaches include textual/discourse analysis, interviews, reception studies, ethnography of scientific practice, or mixed-methods designs. The exact focus and design of the project will be developed collaboratively between the PhD student and the supervisors.
Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:
- To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master’s degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in Applied Linguistics, Educational Linguistics, TESOL, Composition and Rhetoric, psychology/cognitive science with a focus on writing, or Educational Sciences. A Master’s degree in Engineering with a demonstrated interest in science communication is also welcome
- Good knowledge of, and strong interest in, qualitative research methods.
- Fluency in English (spoken and written) is required. Additional proficiency in Swedish and/or any other language is considered an asset.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail are essential, as the project involves designing and managing demanding data collections.
*for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- Familiarity with quantitative approaches
- Previous experience in conducting empirical research – particularly qualitative or text-based research (e.g., interviews, surveys etc.) – is highly desirable.
What you will do
- Design and conduct literature reviews, research plans, and empirical studies, both independently and in collaboration with supervisors.
- Communicate research findings through publications, conference presentations, seminars, and other academic and public venues.
- Contribute to the writing of scientific articles, which will form the basis of your doctoral thesis.
- The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers’ undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours
Contract terms
- The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
- The position is limited to four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position to five years.
- A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025).
- Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.
What we offer
- As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
- A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
- Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
- Information on previous employment, leadership qualifications, and positions of trust
- Names and contact details of two references
Personal letter
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- Describe your previous experience relevant to the position (e.g., education, thesis work, and any other research activities)
- Outline your future goals and intended research focus
Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
Project proposal (please name the file Project proposal, Family name)
- 1–2 A4 pages (excluding references)
- The proposal should outline the kind of research project you are interested in conducting and explain why, focusing on purpose, methods, and the significance of the potential results.
- The proposal should align with the general direction of the advertised research field.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
We welcome your application no later than October 30, 2025
For questions, please contact:
Baraa Khuder
Khuder@chalmers.se