Research assistant to the Swedish Defence University

The Department of War Studies is seeking two Research Assistants to support a research project during the autumn term of 2025.

Duties and Responsibilities
The Department invites applications from suitably qualified individuals for a full-time, fixed-term appointment of four months. The role will focus on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and the underlying infrastructure of the internet. Primary responsibilities will include desk-based research; however, the position may also involve conducting interviews with Swedish non-governmental practitioners operating within the OSINT domain. Subject to the progress of the project, there may also be scope to assist in the planning and delivery of a workshop.

The precise focus of the work will be determined in accordance with the outcomes of the initial phase of research. We are therefore seeking candidates with strong analytical capabilities, a demonstrable interest in digital information environments, and a commitment to contributing to a deeper understanding of how such environments impact intelligence work and security policy.

Essential Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree
• Excellent proficiency in both Swedish and English, in speech and writing, to a level commensurate with postgraduate (Master’s level) study
• Successful completion of the course Connectivity and Combat at the Swedish Defence University
• A completed Master’s dissertation addressing an aspect of digital warfare

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience of working within the Swedish public sector
• Experience of service or employment within the Swedish Armed Forces
• Experience as an analyst in the field of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)

Personal Attributes
Applicants should be highly motivated, well-organised, and possess excellent communication skills. The role requires the ability to take initiative and engage confidently with new tasks. We are looking for individuals who enjoy collaborative work and are committed to developing their responsibilities proactively.

To thrive within the Swedish Defence University, you should be an engaged and collegial member of the academic community, contributing to the institution’s professional development, collaborative ethos, and inclusive working environment. A willingness to share knowledge and support a constructive and productive workplace culture is essential.

About the position
This is a full-time, time-limited appointment for four months. The position will commence as soon as possible following mutual agreement.

Employment at the Swedish Defence University may involve a security clearance in accordance with the Swedish Protective Security Act (2018:585).

The post may also involve wartime placement. Should you currently hold a wartime assignment within another government agency, and your expertise is required within the Swedish Defence University’s wartime organisation, a negotiation regarding placement will be conducted between the relevant authority and the university.

Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted via the Swedish Defence University’s recruitment system by clicking the “Logga in och sök jobbet” (“Log in and apply”) link on the advertisement page. Please quote the reference number: HR 129/2025 in your application.

Information
For further information regarding the post, please contact:

• Dr Matthew Ford, Principal Investigator – matthew.ford@fhs.se

Welcome with your application no later than July 6th 2025.

#LI-DNI

Please note that the Swedish text takes precedence over the English text in this document.