PhD Candidate? We've got your back.

As a PhD candidate, you are both a researcher and an employee. Forskerforbundet (The Norwegian Association of Researchers) represents around 2,500 PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers. We have a dedicated policy agenda focused on improving working conditions, career development opportunities, and rights for doctoral candidates. Join today and get free membership and insurance coverage until the end of the year.

Why choose Forskerforbundet?

We understand the PhD experience

We have extensive experience with issues related to employment conditions, supervision, leave arrangements, contract extensions, and research careers.

Join today

Support where you work

Forskerforbundet has local branches at universities, university colleges, and research institutes across Norway. Our elected union representatives know your workplace and can provide advice and support whenever you need it.

We work for better conditions

We promote the interests of PhD candidates both locally and nationally and advocate fair pay, good working conditions, and strong doctoral education programmes.

As a member, you get

Union representatives at your workplace
Legal advice on employment matters
Guidance on leave arrangements and contract extensions
Courses on working life and career development
Online doctor service – Free health advice hotline
Attractive insurance and banking benefits

Our member benefits

New to Norway?

Many PhD candidates come to Norway from abroad.

That is why we provide information and resources in both Norwegian and English, and help you understand your rights and working life in Norway.

Forskerforbundet is the natural choice if you are taking a PhD degree

Become a member today

Get free membership and insurance coverage for the rest of the year!

Ordinary membership fee for PhD candidates is NOK 146/month for the first year of membership, then NOK 292/month for as long as you are a PhD candidate.
In addition, our basic insurance plan costs NOK 220/month. The insurance is mandatory, with the possibility to opt out.
This offer of free membership applies to persons employed in a PhD candidate position who register as members in the period from August 10 to December 31, 2026, inclusive.
If you do not wish to continue your membership after the free period, you must send a written cancellation to Forskerforbundet. Otherwise, membership and insurance will continue under ordinary terms from January 1, 2027.

Become a member of Forskerforbundet

Join today

What we offer

As a member of Forskerforbundet, you get assistance in salary negotiations, legal assistance in employment matters, good insurance offers, and the magazine Forskerforum sent to you free of charge.

See all our member benefits