Stockholm Environment Institute has announced a vacancy for a Researcher focusing on land governance and Indigenous rights, with a particular emphasis on Sápmi, the traditional territory of the Sámi people in Northern Europe. The role is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on environmental governance, Indigenous land rights, and sustainable development. The position is part of a growing research programme that works closely with Sámi organisations, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to address complex land use conflicts emerging in the context of the green transition. Overview of the Research Role The researcher will join a team working on land governance and Indigenous rights, contributing to projects that examine how negotiated agreements between Sámi herding communities and developers are shaping land use practices. These agreements often involve sectors such as wind power, mining, hydropower, and tourism. The research is part of a Formas-funded programme titled “Agreement-making in the Sámi homeland: Investigating an emerging tool in green transition governance.” This initiative responds to the increasing reliance on private negotiations between Indigenous communities and developers in situations where formal regulatory systems are limited or ineffective. Because many of these agreements are confidential, the programme represents one of the first systematic efforts to analyse their content and implications for Indigenous rights and environmental governance. Research Focus and Thematic Areas The role is centred on understanding the intersection of land governance, Indigenous rights, and environmental policy. The researcher will contribute to empirical and policy-oriented studies that explore how land use decisions are made in contested environments. Key thematic areas include: Land governance in Indigenous territories Sámi rights and environmental justice Negotiated agreements in resource development Energy transition and land use conflicts Critical mineral extraction and sustainability governance Indigenous participation in democratic and policy processes The work also explores broader questions of how green transition policies impact Indigenous communities and how rights-based approaches can be integrated into environmental decision-making. Key Responsibilities The researcher will be expected to contribute actively to both academic and applied policy work. Responsibilities include: Leading data analysis and contributing to academic publications Reviewing academic literature, policy documents and legislation Participating in ethical research processes with Sámi communities Supporting workshops, presentations and stakeholder engagement activities Contributing to policy advice for Swedish and European institutions Assisting in research funding applications and project development The role combines academic research with practical policy engagement, ensuring that findings are relevant to both scholarly debates and real-world decision-making processes. Collaboration and Working Environment The position offers a highly collaborative working environment within an international research institute. The researcher will work closely with colleagues across disciplines and engage directly with Indigenous communities, policymakers and industry actors. A strong emphasis is placed on ethical research practices, particularly in relation to Indigenous rights and community collaboration. The role involves working in partnership with Sámi organisations and ensuring that research processes are inclusive, respectful and grounded in social justice principles. Candidate Profile and Requirements The Stockholm Environment Institute is seeking candidates with strong analytical capabilities and a demonstrated commitment to environmental justice and Indigenous rights. The ideal candidate will typically have recently completed a PhD or be at an early stage of their academic career, although experienced researchers are also encouraged to apply. Candidates without a PhD may be considered if they demonstrate equivalent expertise and professional experience. Essential qualifications include: A PhD in a relevant field such as political science, law, human geography, sociology or interdisciplinary environmental studies Strong written and spoken English skills Experience in areas related to Indigenous rights, land governance or environmental regulation Ability to work in interdisciplinary and international research environments Desirable qualifications include: Previous experience working with Sámi organisations or other Indigenous communities globally Knowledge of Swedish language Experience in negotiation, mediation or environmental licensing processes Personal skills such as communication, teamwork and adaptability are considered highly important for the role. Contract Details and Application Process The position is offered on a one-year contract with the possibility of renewal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of 24 May 2026 at 23:00 Stockholm time. Applicants are required to submit: A short CV A one-page cover letter outlining relevant experience and qualifications Applications must be submitted in English through the organisation’s online recruitment system. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further evaluation as part of the selection process. About Stockholm Environment Institute The Stockholm Environment Institute is an international non-profit research organisation focused on environment and sustainable development challenges. It works across multiple thematic areas, including climate change, natural resources, water, air quality, health, governance, gender equality and social equity. The institute collaborates with governments, NGOs, academic institutions and development agencies to produce research that informs policy and supports sustainable decision-making. Its approach combines scientific research with practical engagement to ensure real-world impact. With centres across the world, the organisation operates globally while maintaining a strong focus on collaboration, transparency and knowledge-sharing. Call for Action The Researcher position at the Stockholm Environment Institute offers a significant opportunity for scholars and professionals interested in Indigenous rights, land governance and environmental justice. By focusing on Sámi land use and negotiated agreements in the green transition, the role addresses some of the most pressing issues in contemporary environmental governance. It is a position that bridges academic research and policy impact, contributing to a deeper understanding of how Indigenous communities are affected by and engaged in sustainable development processes across Europe and beyond. 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