Uppsala University is inviting applications for two full-time Research Assistant positions within the Department of Peace and Conflict Research. The opportunities are part of the newly launched research project, “Why Evictions Turn Violent: The Politics of Growing Cities,” led by Emma Elfversson. The six-month positions will begin on 1 September 2026, or by agreement no later than 1 October 2026, and will be based onsite in Uppsala. Applications must be submitted by 5 June 2026. The project, funded by the Swedish Research Council, examines the political dynamics behind forced evictions and urban violence in rapidly growing cities. Running through 2029, the research combines large-scale quantitative analysis with detailed case studies from Ethiopia and Kenya, where eviction-related tensions have become increasingly prominent. The selected research assistants will support the project primarily through data collection and coding. Their work will focus on compiling detailed datasets on eviction dynamics across ten major and secondary cities in Kenya and Ethiopia using secondary sources. Additional responsibilities may include administrative support, workshop coordination, project management assistance, and writing-related tasks. Applicants are expected to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, Development Studies, or another relevant discipline. Strong English communication skills, attention to detail, analytical abilities, and familiarity with Excel are essential requirements. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team. The university notes that advanced knowledge of local languages such as Kiswahili, Amharic, or another Ethiopian language will be highly advantageous because some of the data collection will involve local-language sources. Additional desirable qualifications include Master’s-level studies in relevant fields, previous experience with conflict-related data coding, familiarity with GIS analysis, and knowledge of statistical software such as R. As part of the application, candidates must answer two mandatory questions, submit a CV detailing language competencies, and provide a relevant writing sample such as a thesis or academic paper. Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is one of Europe’s leading research institutions and is internationally recognised for its work in peace and conflict studies. The Department of Peace and Conflict Research currently employs around 90 staff members and teaches approximately 1,000 students annually across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. The university has also received the European Commission’s “HR Excellence in Research” recognition, highlighting its commitment to providing a strong and supportive research environment. Why This Opportunity Matters for Early-Career Researchers This research assistant opportunity at Uppsala University stands out because it combines academic research, policy relevance, and practical data skills in one of the world’s most respected peace research environments. Forced evictions and urban violence are becoming increasingly urgent global issues, particularly in rapidly expanding African cities where land pressure, infrastructure projects, and informal settlements intersect with political power and inequality. For emerging researchers interested in urban conflict, migration, governance, housing justice, or African politics, this project offers direct exposure to real-world datasets and conflict analysis methods that are highly valued in international organisations, think tanks, NGOs, and doctoral programmes. Key reasons this opportunity is especially valuable include: Hands-on conflict data experience: Research assistants will gain experience collecting and coding fine-grained conflict and eviction data, a highly sought-after skill in peace and development research. Regional expertise development: Working on Ethiopia and Kenya provides strong regional specialization in East African urban politics and governance. Career pathway into academia and policy: Experience at the Department of Peace and Conflict Research can strengthen applications for competitive Master’s, PhD, and policy research positions globally. Exposure to mixed-methods research: The project combines quantitative analysis with in-depth case studies, helping candidates build interdisciplinary research skills. Language advantages matter: Applicants with Kiswahili or Amharic skills may have a competitive edge because multilingual data collection is central to the project. Strong networking opportunities: Successful candidates will work directly with senior researchers and international collaborators within a high-profile Swedish Research Council-funded project. Valuable technical skills: Familiarity with Excel, GIS, and statistical software such as R can significantly improve employability in research and humanitarian sectors. For applicants aiming to build long-term careers in peacebuilding, urban governance, international development, or conflict analysis, this position offers both practical research training and international academic visibility. Interested candidates can learn more and apply through the official Uppsala University careers page. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. 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