PhD Fellowship in Extraction and Aesthetics: Material Ecologies in Crafts and Design
Explore the intersection of material extraction, aesthetics, and ecological design in crafts and artistic practices.
Best for:Best for interdisciplinary scholars with a master’s degree in arts, design, or humanities, seeking to explore ecological and aesthetic dimensions of material extraction in creative practices.
Overview
This fully funded PhD position at Aarhus University’s Graduate School of Arts invites applicants to investigate the relationship between material extraction, aesthetics, and ecological sustainability within crafts and design. The fellowship, supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, offers a unique opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research at the nexus of art, ecology, and material culture. The successful candidate will develop a practice-based or theoretical PhD project that critically examines how extraction processes shape artistic and design practices, with a focus on ecological and ethical implications. The position is ideal for scholars with a background in arts, design, or related humanities disciplines who are passionate about sustainability and material innovation. The fellowship begins on February 1, 2027, and spans up to three years (5+3 model).
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research on the intersection of material extraction, aesthetics, and ecological sustainability in crafts and design.
- Develop and execute a PhD project that may include practice-based or theoretical approaches, depending on the candidate’s expertise.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers in the Graduate School of Arts to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and knowledge exchange.
- Present research findings at academic conferences, workshops, and internal seminars within Aarhus University.
- Contribute to teaching and mentoring activities as part of the PhD programme, including assisting in workshops or seminars.
- Publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals or academic publications relevant to the field.
- Engage with external partners, such as museums, design studios, or ecological organizations, to contextualize research within broader societal discussions.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree or equivalent in Arts, Design, Humanities, or a related interdisciplinary field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and publication
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background in arts, design, or humanities with a focus on material culture, ecology, or aesthetics.
- Ability to conduct independent research and develop a coherent PhD project proposal.
- Familiarity with interdisciplinary methodologies, including practice-based or theoretical approaches.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Willingness to engage with collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments.
- Open to applicants from any nationality.
- No residency restrictions.
- No age limits specified.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-01 (Europe/Copenhagen)
Applicants must submit their application through the Aarhus University PhD portal. The application package should include a detailed project proposal, CV, academic transcripts, and a letter of motivation. Two reference letters must also be provided. The application process is competitive, and selection will be based on academic merit, research potential, and alignment with the project’s interdisciplinary focus.
- Detailed PhD project proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Letter of motivation
- Two reference letters
Contact
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