Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.
The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.
UmArts is Umeå University’s research centre for architecture, design and art, in collaboration with Umeå Academy of Fine Arts, Umeå School of Architecture, Umeå Institute of Design, Department of Creative Studies and Bildmuseet. The centre offers an exciting interdisciplinary environment for research in visual arts, architecture, design, and arts education. Learn more at www.umarts.se.
UmArts, in collaboration with the Umeå School of Architecture, is recruiting a Research coordinator. The position is permanent and part-time (50% of full-time). We are looking for an engaged and collaborative individual with excellent organisational skills who can contribute to the structured and effective implementation of research projects and events. The application deadline is 26 December 2025.
Tasks and responsibilities As Research coordinator, you will work closely with UmArts’ management and researchers to support the centre’s daily operations in line with its strategic goals. The role involves proactively and independently planning, coordinating, and executing activities and administrative processes. Your main tasks and responsibilities include:
Planning and coordinating UmArts events and research activities, such as Artistic Research Week, research working groups, seed funding processes, and the UmArts Artists in Residence programme.
Collaborating with external partners on the practical and administrative coordination of research projects.
Supporting PhD and postdoc research presentations and exhibitions.
Writing newsletters and press releases.
Additional tasks may be added, and the role may evolve over time according to the centre’s needs and conditions.
Qualifications
To succeed in this role, you will have:
A Master’s degree in design, art, architecture, art history, cultural or museum studies, or another closely related cultural field.
Documented experience of project management and/or event coordination within art galleries, museums, and/or academic environments.
Documented experience in administration and/or communication, preferably within an artistic or academic context.
Very good ability to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing, on topics related to contemporary visual art, crafts, design, and architecture.
Strong digital competence, including very good knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Personal attributes
We are looking for someone with excellent organizational skills and the ability to work patiently and meticulously with administrative tasks. You have the ability to work independently and take initiative to work towards established goals. You have good collaboration skills and a flexible, team-oriented approach when working with researchers from different disciplines and the team. You are solution-oriented and able to build positive relationships in a creative and academic environment.
Additional desirable qualifications
The following are not a requirement, but considered an asset for the position:
A PhD in design, art, architecture, museology, cultural studies or another related creative or aesthetic fields.
Experience in organising public events.
Experience of fundraising.
Proficiency in Swedish, both spoken and written.
Employment conditions
The position is 50% of full-time and permanent. The starting date is 1 February 2026 or as agreed. A probationary period may apply.
Application
You apply through Umeå University’s recruitment system Varbi no later than 26 December 2025. Your application should be written in Swedish or English and include the following:
CV
Cover letter describing your motivation for applying and how your experience matches the qualifications listed in the advertisement
Copies of relevant degrees and certificates
Names and contact details of two references
Any additional documents you wish to submit (optional)
As part of the application process, you will also be asked to answer questions related to your competencies and previous work experience.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact Ele Carpenter, Director of UmArts, via email: ele.carpenter@umu.se or phone: +46 721605415.
Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.
We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising help.
