Innovative, interdisciplinary, and future-oriented – the University of Agder is one of the most dynamic academic institutions in Southern Norway. As a modern university with a clear research agenda, it combines academic excellence with a strong commitment to societal impact.
As part of the Norway Mobility Programme, data science talents have the opportunity to join interdisciplinary research projects at the University of Agder that address the digital, ecological, and societal transformations of our time.

Über Nora
NORA - Norwegian Artificial Intelligence Research Consortium
The University of Agder is a partner of NORA, the Norwegian Artificial Intelligence Research Consortium. This program aims to strengthen Norwegian research, education, and innovation in the fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics, as well as other relevant areas that support the development of AI applications.
Together with HIDA, NORA coordinates the Norway Mobility Programme, which offers PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers from the Helmholtz Association and NORA partner institutions the opportunity to undertake a research stay.
The University of Agder (UiA) is a modern and research-driven university committed to academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and socially relevant innovation. With campuses in Kristiansand and Grimstad, UiA offers a dynamic environment for students and researchers working at the interface of technology, society, and sustainability.
UiA is particularly strong in fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, e-health, education, and democratic governance. It promotes close cooperation across disciplines and sectors to develop solutions to complex societal challenges.
Research Priorities:
The university is structured into six faculties, each encompassing various academic disciplines:
- Health and sport sciences
- Business and law
- Humanities and education
- Engineering and science
- Social sciences
- Fine arts
Around 14,200 students study at the University of Agder, supported by approximately 2,200 staff members across teaching, research, and administration.

The sites
Die Standorte
UiA's Expertise in Data Science & AI
At the University of Agder, digital and societal transformation is at the heart of a research-driven, interdisciplinary approach. Researchers work at the intersection of technology, education, energy, health, and democratic development — always with the aim of translating knowledge into meaningful impact.
As part of the Norway Mobility Programme, UiA offers international PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers a wide range of opportunities across the following research areas:
- Educational Technologies and Learning Analytics
- Digital tools and AI-supported models to enhance learning processes and access to education.
- Digital Health and E-Health
- Technological solutions for prevention, care, and patient communication — with a focus on usability and system integration.
- Sustainable Energy Systems and Smart Grids
- Research on renewable energy, energy storage, and interconnected infrastructures in the context of the energy transition.
- Democracy and Digital Governance
- Exploration of digital participation, public sector innovation, and the role of technology in democratic processes.
- Human-Technology Interaction and Design
- Research Development and analysis of interactive systems focused on user needs, accessibility, and socio-technical integration.
- Technology Ethics and Responsible Innovation
- Critical reflection on the societal impacts of emerging technologies and the design of innovation for the common good.
How to Apply
- Step 1: Contact a research group at one of the NORA member institutions to discuss the possibility of a three-month research stay.
- Step 2: Apply through this link.
- Step 3: Applications are reviewed by a selection committee, and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You can find more details about the application process [here]
The selection of candidates for the scholarship is primarily based on the applicant’s motivation, the quality and originality of the project, and the overall feasibility within the proposed research stay. In addition, a clear connection to the field of Information & Data Science and added value for the Helmholtz Association’s research portfolio must be evident. The final decision on funding will be made in coordination with the respective Helmholtz Centers.
Please note that the program is open to doctoral researchers and postdocs with an employment contract at a Helmholtz Center, as well as Helmholtz-affiliated doctoral researchers and postdocs. If you are affiliated with a Helmholtz Center but employed elsewhere, please contact us before submitting your application.
As part of this exchange, HIDA acts as a liaison between hosts and participants and covers travel and material costs for Helmholtz participants. For specific questions regarding contractual and employment matters, please contact the program officers at your Helmholtz Center or the host institution.
More information about the program regulations can be found [here]
Contact

Stefanie Gruber-Sliva
Networks & Mobility Program Manager
Contact
