SAI is a research and academic institute located at the University of Akureyri. For additional details, please see Regulation No. 1180/2024 governing SAI at the University of Akureyri. SAI conducts Arctic research and operates within an international scientific environment that emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in the humanistic social sciences, social science, and environmental studies.
The primary roles of SAI are to:
- Advance knowledge in Arctic studies by conducting research on key issues such as the well-being of Arctic residents and Indigenous peoples, sustainable and socio-economic development, resource utilization, and climate change impacts and adaptation.
- Serve as a centre of excellence and a collaborative platform for Arctic research, strengthening networks among scholars focused on sustainable social, economic, and human development in the Arctic.
- Foster partnerships with domestic and international universities, international organizations, research institutions, and industry, promoting the shared generation and dissemination of knowledge.
- Contribute to the development of undergraduate and graduate education in Arctic studies and Arctic law at the University of Akureyri, while fostering a dynamic research environment for master’s and doctoral students.
- Enhance Akureyri’ s role as a leading Icelandic and international hub for Arctic research, issues, and affairs.
- Organize and promote educational initiatives, including seminars, conferences, and public lectures, that advance understanding and engagement with Arctic issues.
This is a full-time position based at the University of Akureyri campus in Akureyri, Iceland. The ideal candidate will be available to begin work in the fall of 2025 or as soon as possible. The Director reports directly to the Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and oversee SAI’s research strategy, operations, and budget.
- Implement institutional policies and manage day-to-day activities of SAI.
- Strengthen and maintain relationships with domestic and international partners.
- Take part in preparing and submitting grant applications to fund SAI projects and initiatives.
- Oversee the institute’s financial planning and management.
- Coordinate the publication of the institute’s annual report.
- Support and supervise ongoing research, teaching, and related activities within SAI.
- Conduct and contribute to excellence in Arctic research.
- Represent SAI at national and international fora, including meetings, conferences, and project committees.
Qualification Requirements:
- A doctoral degree in a relevant field, with recognized expertise in Arctic studies and interdisciplinary knowledge spanning the humanistic social sciences, social science, and environmental studies. Academic qualifications must meet international standards and be confirmed by a formal assessment committee.
- An academic qualification at the level of assistant professor, associate professor, or professor in a field relevant to the institute’s activities.
- Demonstrated experience in applying for and managing competitive and international research grants within the institute’s fields of study.
- Proven leadership and strategic planning experience, particularly within academic or research institutions.
- Strong ability to work independently, take initiative, and communicate effectively in a collaborative environment.
- Proficiency in information technology, including common software such as MS Word and Excel.
- Capability to teach Arctic-related subjects and communicate fluently, both orally and in writing, in English. The ability to speak and write Icelandic is considered a strong asset.
The application must include the following documents:
- A comprehensive report detailing the applicant’s academic and professional career, including academic work and teaching experience.
- Certified copies of relevant diplomas and degrees, with translations into Icelandic or English if necessary.
- A cover letter outlining the motivation for applying and clearly demonstrating the applicant’s qualifications for the position.
- A two-page statement presenting the applicant’s vision for the future of SAI over the next five years.
- Three examples of published articles authored by the applicant. If any of the submitted works are co-authored, the applicant must specify their individual contribution.
- Contact details for at least two referees, preferably including the applicant’s current or former direct supervisor.
Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
Salary is in accordance with the current agreement between the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs and the Association of University Teachers at the University of Akureyri.
The processing of applications, assessment of qualifications, and appointment to the position will be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Act on Universities No. 63/2006, Act No. 85/2008 on Public Universities, Rules No. 694/2022 for the University of Akureyri, and Rules No. 724/2023 on the appointment of academic staff at the University of Akureyri. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
All applicants will be notified once a decision has been made. Applications may remain valid for up to six months after the deadline, in accordance with Article 2 of Rules No. 464/1996. The University of Akureyri reserves the right to decline all applications.
The University of Akureyri is committed to gender equality and encourages individuals of all genders to apply. Recruitment decisions are made in line with the University’s Equality Plan and the specific needs of the relevant academic unit.
For further information, please contact: Tom Barry, tom@unak.is, phone: 460 8028