Scholarships
Fully Funded PhD Position in Human-Centered Design of Clinical Decision Support Systems at NTNU
Are you passionate about healthcare innovation, human-centered design, and digital solutions that transform patient care? The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is now offering a fully funded 3-year PhD position at the Department of Design, Faculty of Architecture and Design in Trondheim, starting January 15, 2026.
This exciting opportunity is part of a groundbreaking research project focused on the human-centered design of Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS), developed in collaboration with St. Olav’s Hospital’s Lung Cancer Department. The project aims to design innovative digital tools that enhance multidisciplinary team (MDT) decision-making, reduce clinical errors, and improve patient outcomes.
About the Project
The PhD candidate will contribute to developing and testing a next-generation CDSS for lung cancer treatment. This system will provide expert clinicians with evidence-based recommendations, streamlined access to patient data, and personalized treatment pathways.
The project applies User-Centered Design (UCD), participatory design, and co-design workshops, ensuring close collaboration with clinicians, healthcare professionals, and technology experts. Research activities will include:
- Conducting literature reviews, surveys, and stakeholder interviews
- Facilitating co-design and participatory design workshops
- Developing and validating proof-of-concept prototypes
- Applying design action research methodologies to healthcare innovation
This project directly supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while generating new knowledge in service design, healthcare technology, and design research.
Key Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate, your main tasks will include:
- Conducting high-quality research in the CDSS-Lung project
- Publishing scientific papers and presenting findings at conferences
- Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team of designers, clinicians, and technologists
- Completing 30 ECTS of mandatory PhD courses in design research
- Contributing to co-design workshops and digital prototyping activities
Required Qualifications
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Background: Master’s degree in interaction design, service design, human-centered design, industrial design, or related fields
- Academic Performance: Strong academic record (average grade of B or better) in the Master’s program
- Language Skills: Fluency in English and Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (mandatory)
- Healthcare Experience: Prior experience designing clinical decision support systems or working in healthcare contexts
- Co-Design Skills: Proven experience in participatory design and collaboration with healthcare professionals
- Programming & Prototyping Skills: Ability to develop high-fidelity digital prototypes
Candidates must also meet NTNU’s formal requirements for admission to the PhD program in Design.
Preferred Skills
- Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Strong scientific writing skills
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams
- Strategic planning and goal-oriented mindset
Salary and Benefits
- Annual salary: Gross NOK 550,800 per year (approx. €46,000 / $49,000)
- Pension: 2% contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
- Employment period: 3 years, full-time
- Work environment: Open, inclusive, and international academic setting
- Location: Trondheim – Norway’s innovation capital, known for its quality of life, safety, and natural beauty
Diversity and Inclusion at NTNU
NTNU values diversity and actively encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, cultural background, or career breaks. Their vision, “Knowledge for a Better World,” highlights the importance of inclusiveness in education and research.
Application Process
Deadline: October 13, 2025
Applicants must submit the following documents (in English):
- Motivation letter / Statement of purpose
- Research project proposal (max 4 pages)
- CV with portfolio link
- Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas and transcripts
- Copy/link to Master’s thesis
- Contact details of three referees
- Relevant publications (if any)
Apply electronically via JobbNorge.no – applications submitted elsewhere will not be considered.
Why Choose NTNU and Trondheim?
Trondheim offers an outstanding quality of life with:
- World-class healthcare and education systems
- Family-friendly policies, childcare, and international schools
- A vibrant cultural scene with museums, music, and festivals
- Stunning nature for hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities
- Clean air, low crime rates, and a safe environment
As Norway’s leading university in technology and design, NTNU provides an inspiring research environment with global collaborations.
Final Thoughts
This fully funded PhD position at NTNU is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of healthcare through design and technology. If you are passionate about human-centered design, digital health, and clinical innovation, this program provides the perfect platform to contribute to impactful research while advancing your academic career.
📌 Application Deadline: October 13, 2025
📍 Location: Department of Design, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
💰 Salary: NOK 550,800 per year (before tax)
👉 Don’t miss your chance to join one of Europe’s most innovative design research environments.
