NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 in Norway | Fully Funded

NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 in Norway | Fully Funded PhD Opportunity

The NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for ambitious researchers who want to pursue doctoral research in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology management in Norway. The position is offered by NTNU – Norwegian University of Science and Technology and focuses on understanding how new ideas emerge and develop within academic and institutional environments.

This is a fully funded three-year PhD position based in Trondheim, Norway. The selected candidate will conduct research related to early-phase innovation and idea development, with case studies connected to the NTNU Energy innovation ecosystem. The research also involves collaboration with industry and public institutions, giving candidates valuable exposure beyond traditional academic research.

NTNU is one of Norway's major universities, with a particularly strong profile in technology, natural sciences, and professional education. The PhD position is hosted by the Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, where research combines technology, strategy, management, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable value creation.

NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 Overview

• Host University: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
• Host Country: Norway
• Study Level: PhD
• Duration: 3 years
• Study/Work Location: Trondheim, Norway
• Field: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Technology Management
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Application Platform: Jobbnorge
• Application Deadline: 23 August 2026

Scholarship Benefits

The NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship provides a range of financial, professional, and academic benefits. According to the published opportunity, the position includes:

• Annual salary of approximately NOK 550,800
• Fully funded three-year doctoral position
• Research and operating resources for the project
• International academic working environment
• Collaboration with industry, businesses, and public institutions
• Career guidance throughout the doctoral period
• Access to an active PhD research environment
• Membership and favorable terms in the Norwegian State Pension Fund
• Employee benefits and other workplace advantages
• Opportunities for international academic collaboration

Unlike many conventional scholarships, Norwegian PhD candidates are commonly employed as research fellows. NTNU states that PhD candidates generally need a funding plan and that most PhD research fellows are employed by the university or another higher education institution.

Research Focus

The selected PhD researcher will investigate early-phase innovation and idea development . The project examines how ideas emerge, evolve, and are co-created within academic and institutional settings.

The research will use case studies from the NTNU Energy innovation ecosystem and may involve collaboration with external organizations. Candidates will therefore have the opportunity to explore the relationship between research, innovation, entrepreneurship, industry, and sustainable development.

The research position may be particularly suitable for applicants interested in:

• Innovation management
• Entrepreneurship
• Technology management
• Business development
• Sustainable innovation
• Energy innovation
• Qualitative research
• Academic entrepreneurship
• Industry-university collaboration
• Innovation ecosystems

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold a completed Master's degree in entrepreneurship, innovation, or an equivalent field .
• Have a weighted average grade equivalent to B or better during the last two years of the Master's degree.
• Candidates who are in the final phase of their Master's program may also apply, subject to satisfactory completion.
• Demonstrate good written and spoken English skills.
• Knowledge or experience with qualitative research methods is an advantage.
• Demonstrate independence, enthusiasm, strong work capacity, and the ability to contribute positively to a research team.
• Meet the relevant requirements for admission to the PhD program.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Motivation letter explaining interest in doctoral study
• Short research/project outline of up to 3 pages
• Updated CV
• Master's diploma and certificates
• Bachelor's diploma and certificates, where applicable
• Academic transcripts
• Relevant scientific publications or other academic work
• Explanation of the applicant's contribution to jointly produced research
• Documentation showing the scope and quality of foreign education, such as a diploma supplement
• HK-dir statement, if available

The research outline should clearly explain the proposed theme, research questions or issues, theoretical perspective, methodology, and expected results.

International Research Opportunities

The position provides an international dimension to the doctoral experience. The department supports international contact and allows the successful candidate to spend approximately one to two semesters at a foreign educational institution , subject to the arrangements of the program and research project.

This can help PhD candidates develop international research networks and gain experience working in different academic environments.

Why Study at NTNU?

NTNU is an excellent choice for researchers interested in technology, innovation, engineering, and sustainable development. The university has a strong research profile and close connections with industry and public-sector organizations.

For this particular PhD position, candidates will join an active research environment with approximately 30 other PhD candidates in the department. The position also offers opportunities for collaboration with companies, businesses, and public institutions.

How to Apply for NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026

Interested applicants should submit their applications electronically through Jobbnorge .

The general application process is:

1. Review the PhD position and eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare your CV and academic documents.
3. Write a strong motivation letter.
4. Prepare a research project outline of no more than three pages.
5. Collect relevant scientific work and publications.
6. Prepare documentation for any education completed outside Norway.
7. Submit the complete application through Jobbnorge.
8. Ensure the application is submitted before the official deadline.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 is:

23 August 2026

Deadline Month: August 2026

Applicants should submit their applications electronically through Jobbnorge before the deadline.

Who Should Apply?

This PhD opportunity is particularly suitable for graduates with a strong academic background in entrepreneurship, innovation, technology management, or closely related disciplines.

Applicants with an interest in understanding how innovative ideas develop within universities, research organizations, energy ecosystems, businesses, and public institutions may find this position especially relevant.

Final Thoughts

The NTNU PhD Innovation Scholarship 2026 in Norway is a valuable opportunity for researchers interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology management. The fully funded three-year position offers a competitive salary, research resources, professional development, industry collaboration, and international research opportunities.

If you have a relevant Master's degree, a strong academic record, and a genuine interest in innovation research, this PhD position can provide an excellent foundation for an international research career. Make sure to prepare your research proposal and supporting documents carefully and submit your application before the 23 August 2026 deadline. Apply Now