BI Norwegian Business School is currently accepting applications for the PhD Candidate Position in Data and Decision Sciences from all around the world.

Eligible applicants must hold (or complete by autumn 2026) a Master of Science degree (or equivalent, e.g., Research Masters/M.Phil) with a thesis in a relevant quantitative field such as statistics, operations research, machine learning, computer science, finance, economics, or mathematics, achieving a grade point average of B or higher.

BI Norwegian Business School is one of Europe’s leading business schools, known for its strong emphasis on research excellence and practical relevance. Located primarily in Oslo, Norway, BI offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in business, economics, finance, marketing, and management.

Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

Brief Description

• University or Organization: BI Norwegian Business School
• Department: Department of Data Science and Analytics
• Course Level: PhD
• Award: NOK 572,800 annually (according to Norwegian State Salary Scale), linked to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund; includes 25% teaching/research assistance obligation
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: 4
• Nationality: International (open to all nationalities)
• The award can be taken in: Norway 

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in the PhD specialization in Data and Decision Sciences (focusing on data science, operations research, machine learning, and applied areas in AI)
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
  • Completed (or completing by autumn 2026) a Master of Science degree with a thesis, Research Master’s/M.Phil, or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., statistics, operations research, machine learning, computer science, finance, economics, mathematics); grade point average of B or higher; MBA degrees do not qualify.
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills, programming abilities, and a genuine interest in fundamental research applied to areas like retail, logistics, transportation, commodity, and energy markets.
  • GRE/GMAT: Required for applicants with master’s degrees from non-EU/EEA countries; strongly encouraged for EU/EEA applicants (percentile and raw scores needed; good scores generally 85th percentile or higher).
  • TOEFL/IELTS: Required unless exempt (native English speaker, education in English, or specific EU/EEA/Council of Europe criteria); minimum TOEFL 90 (internet-based)/575 (paper)/233 (computer) or IELTS 6.5.
  • If otherwise equally qualified, preference given to female applicants.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted electronically via the “Send Application” button on the official announcement page. Email or paper applications are not accepted. Required uploads include:

• CV/resume (including research publications/thesis if any)
• At least 2 letters of recommendation (emailed directly to [email protected])
• Statement of purpose (max 1000 words, in English)
• One selected academic work (e.g., master’s thesis)
• Degree certificates/transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s)
• GRE/GMAT and TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
• Signed verification document

Candidates completing their master’s in 2026 may apply without a final certificate. Interviews may be required.

Benefits

• Full four-year funding with competitive salary (NOK 572,800 per year, increasing over time)
• 25% teaching/research assistance duties to gain professional experience
• Access to a world-class research environment, international seminars, conferences, and collaborations via SURE-AI and AMOR centres
• Supportive supervision, industry/public sector connections, and opportunities for joint projects

Apply Now