Forskningssamordnare till UmArts

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.

We look forward to receiving your application!