Why working at Roskilde University?

I am a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Social Sciences and Business (ISE) and a member of the Global Political Sociology research group. I am a social anthropologist, and it is great to have joined such an interdisciplinary department. My position is a two-year fellowship funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. My current project investigates how the political experiences of Chilean and Italian youths who participate in and sympathize for right-wing politics intersect with their visions for the future.

One of the requirements of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions postdoctoral fellowship is that the applicant moves to a country that is different from their current place of residence. I was fortunate to connect with a great supervisor in Roskilde University, Prof. Bjørn Thomassen, and to join a welcoming and dynamic interdisciplinary department where my project fits well.

Roskilde (along with nearby places like Copenhagen) is a truly beautiful area to explore. My advice for new arrivals is to venture beyond the university campus to discover the countless beautiful spots this part of the world has to offer.

I arrived at a very quiet time right before the summer, for a brief 3-month stay, after which I left for my fieldwork. I can't wait to come back and fully embrace the lively university atmosphere when it's in full swing!

Roskilde (along with nearby places like Copenhagen) is a truly beautiful area to explore. My advice for new arrivals is to venture beyond the university campus to discover the countless beautiful spots this part of the world has to offer. As I was there during summer, I spent many hours walking along the fjord. Moreover, I highly recommend getting a bike as soon as you can. The freedom and joy of pedaling your way around is unbeatable.

I would suggest taking some time to learn a bit of Danish. Even though most people speak English, having a grasp of the basics in the local language can make your interactions, both on and off campus, more enjoyable.

Denmark is a wonderfully organized and easy-to-navigate country. Nevertheless, some things, like finding accommodation, can be a bit trickier and time-consuming. My advice is to start exploring practical details and hunting for housing well in advance. The earlier the better! While Roskilde is a lovely place to live in, the region’s efficient transport system means that it is also possible to live in nearby towns and reach the university easily.

When I first set foot at Roskilde University, I was fascinated by its intriguing history, which I believe sets it apart and makes it a very unique institution.

Moreover, I found Roskilde University's dedication to fostering interdisciplinary research and academic communities to be instrumental in creating a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and active participation, making it a great place to engage and collaborate with colleagues from a wide range of disciplines and research interests.

Elena Miltiadis - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal

I am a Marie Curie Fellow at the Department of Social Sciences and Business (ISE). My project is funded by the European Commission under the Horizon Europe 2021 program. The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions are among Europe’s most competitive and prestigious research and innovation fellowships, and I am pleased to have secured funding and landed at Roskilde University.

By closely examining selected novels and films, my project explores how financialization relies on fiction to bring its envisioned world to life, and how speculative fiction can uncover contradictions inherent in financial narratives and render them more understandable. Furthermore, my project serves a dual purpose: addressing academic matters and striving for social justice and transformative social change, thus creating a societal impact.

I chose to come to Denmark because I had Danish friends during my time in the UK, and their understanding of friendship and life resonated with me.

Additionally, I chose Denmark because it is a society that treasures values I hold dear. Denmark is a country of rules, and I love rules as they are the foundation for creating peace and harmony. It also values knowledge, egalitarianism, respect and politeness, the very features that make you feel valued.

The reason I chose Roskilde University as my destination is its emphasis on critical and interdisciplinary research and education. Research at Roskilde University in general, and at the Department of Social Sciences and Business in particular, is multifaceted, as the staff shares an interest in interdisciplinarity and pluralism in world politics, critical theory, global political economy, and contemporary forms of governance. I am working with Dr. Laura Horn, an Associate Professor in Global Political Economy at ISE. Her expertise in financialization aligns well with my focus on speculative finance and will be helpful in conceptualizing the ways in which finance capital depends on various social fictions. Moreover, her interest in how future expectations guide and manifest in processes of global political economy is beneficial to my project, providing a crucial grounding in political economy. Consequently, my research also aligns well with Economic Policy, Institutions, and Change (EPIC), an interdisciplinary research group conducting studies on contemporary economic dynamics at ISE.

At Roskilde University, we experience collegial interaction and a supportive research environment, which is something we often lack in the contemporary atmosphere of neoliberalization and privatization. In such contexts, you may often feel isolated and experience a sense of alienation. However, at Roskilde University, not only is your research valued, but your humanity and social consciousness are as well, and I find this to be important.

I advise international researchers to be themselves! It’s always charming to be original if you respect others and promote peace. But here are some tips to enhance your experience at Roskilde University: Try to affiliate with a research group that aligns with your interests and attend their meetings. At Roskilde University, affiliating with a research group is crucial as it enables you to deepen your knowledge in your chosen topics and fosters interaction with staff. Additionally, make an effort to participate in academic events organized at Roskilde University and other universities, as this will further broaden your perspective and expand your social circles.

Regarding some general advice or tips for living in Denmark: I would recommend starting by learning some basic Danish! While many Danes speak English fluently, acquiring basic Danish phrases can facilitate daily interactions and make your stay more enjoyable. I also recommend that international researchers engage with their peers and enhance their social connections. This involves participating in activities and social events to meet new people and expand your social circle. Additionally, it’s essential to budget wisely. Denmark can be expensive, especially with the housing market being quite challenging. Create a budget and stick to it. Potential employees should get acquainted with the Danish tax system, as tax rates can be relatively high. It’s crucial to understand your tax obligations and take advantage of available tax deductions. Embracing an active lifestyle is rewarding, as Danes lead quite active lives. International researchers can also consider joining sports clubs, engaging in outdoor activities, and attending arts and cultural events to broaden their horizons and gain a global perspective. So, remaining open to new experiences and people is always rewarding.

Roskilde University is a special place to work and, I would emphasize the significance of collegial interaction and social engagement. Collegial interaction is crucial because it’s a value we are gradually losing in the contemporary understanding of the neoliberal university. Social engagement is equally important, as Roskilde University is a critical and interdisciplinary institution that places a strong emphasis on community engagement and social impact, particularly in the context of addressing real-world problems and providing solutions.

Lastly, I would emphasize grant applications. Receiving grants often serves as the primary gateway to the Danish job market, so potential employees should consider joining networking groups related to their field of work.

Ali Riza Taskale - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal

My research is about IT in society. I have applied Scandinavian design methodologies, especially stakeholder involvement methods (from in-depth user studies to co-creation) to design societal IT systems, implement Robots, AI and services in organizations and communities in collaboration with large global companies and public organizations. Since 2000s, I have worked on digital city projects, which continues as e-government and current smart city projects in Japan and Denmark.

I have known Roskilde University through my research. Some of my current colleagues are the leading figures in my field. I got familiar with “Participatory Design” through my Ph.D. project in Japan, which is one of my core research topics. Naturally, I looked for an opportunity to seek for my academic carrier at Roskilde University.

I am fortunate to have great colleagues who keep inspiring me on research as well as teaching. Roskilde University researchers are active researchers, very much disciplined, ethical and passionate in many aspects. In addition, I feel all are committed to create a great work, as well as, learning environment. I am happy that I can keep learning something new. PPL (Problem oriented Project Learning) is one of them. Now I am a promoter of PPL to my Asian academic friends.

Denmark might be different from where you are from. Still, Roskilde University and Denmark are an open door for us, international researchers. You might need to speak out or take the first step, but you can be who you are. You might be a minority as an international, but you are also a part of the community. Roskilde University is ready to open their doors if you seek for and wish to.

Roskilde University has a lot of great history, traditions, and collaborative mindset. At the same time Roskilde University has innovative minds. Thus, Roskilde University as a place and space create a great mutual learning environment.

Roskilde University could offer a great foundation of learning, researching and other academic activities. Academic environment is usually competitive, and it is also true at Roskilde University; however, Roskilde University provides a supportive and collaborative environment as well. Roskilde University admins and researchers understand, we get more power when we unite. Who are our competitors? Our enemies are not managers, other researchers, or other countries. They are inequality, poverty, social challenges, and environmental problems.

Mika Yasuoka Jensen - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal

My research is about technological solutions inside the prisons of Denmark to facilitate the education and vocational training of the inmates and the security and privacy risk assessment for the attainment of a possible implementation. I applied for a vacant position on the Department of People and Technology (IMT) that pertained to Security and Privacy research with my own proposal regarding a potential prison system implementation for rehabilitation and I was fortunate to have interviewers that believed in the project and considered it relevant and important for PhD research.

I chose to work in Denmark because the working conditions focus on well-being. Plus, my aim is to become a professor and researcher that could conduct meaningful projects for the academia and society alike. 

I had heard about Roskilde University before, but I was not previously familiar with Roskilde University’s way of working. Therefore, the sole drive for me to accept the position in the first place was that the Roskilde University scholars that interviewed me were accommodating people and felt aligned with the research culture path I wanted to follow.

I didn’t have particular expectations other than to conduct research on my ideas, work 37,5 hours per week and work partly remotely. They have all been met and on top of it I have met very open and appreciative colleagues, and students that are of diverse backgrounds and empowered enough to actively interact also with the staff.

My advice for new international researchers would be to join a union, an A-kasse and start learning the language as soon as possible if you want to stay in Denmark. It is important to have guidance on what are one’s rights in their workplace, the average salaries of one’s working role etc. 

As mentioned above there are a lot of internationals at Roskilde University and both the students and employees’ relationships are quite diverse and dynamic. Both as a student and an employee, there is a lot of creative freedom to drive their learning interests towards the direction they wish, while having supervisors that are open and available. 

This, in combination with a quite Danish model in learning (Problem oriented approach, giving voice equally to everyone, groupwork) can help the development of skills that can be used on various societal levels.

As an employee of Roskilde University, you can expect to have a lot of help but also a lot of independence. This means that one must carry out their own research and depend a lot on their own motivation and willpower to go through with your project.

Pavlos Chatzipolakis - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal
 

My research centers on identifying genetic factors for neurological and psychiatric disease and using this genetic information to make predictions on disease risk. This field of research, sometimes called personalized medicine, seeks to translate basic research on disease into clinical information that can be used to predict disease risk or treat diseases in patients based on an individual’s genetic profile.

I came to Denmark in 2019 to work as a senior postdoctoral researcher at a hospital. My decision to move to Denmark was in large part due to the wonderful research environment. Another key factor is that the progressive Danish lifestyle and values closely reflects my own. 

I was encouraged to apply to Roskilde University by my hospital colleagues that worked as lecturers at the university, as well as by friends in the community that were Roskilde University graduates. They all had positive things to say about the working and research culture at Roskilde.

My expectations of Roskilde University have been exceeded! I have just finished my first full year, and I am very happy with my decision to apply and work here. My new colleagues were quick to help with teaching advice and support, and I have already started several research collaborations with other faculty. I quickly adapted to the new work environment, and I have really enjoyed teaching and the student interactions.

For my first piece of advice, I would recommend that new internationals sign up for the free Danish language education courses. Even though almost everyone in Denmark speaks excellent English, it is a great way to meet other internationals and learn about Danish culture.

For advice on joining Roskilde University, I highly recommend that you look to live close to the university. The university is very close to the train station, and it is only a 25-minute train ride to the central station in Copenhagen, but there is a nice international community in both Trekroner and in Roskilde. It makes working at the University feel more like a part of the community rather than just a job with a long commute.

I think what really makes this a special place to work is that I feel like I am highly valued and needed at Roskilde. It is a smaller university with very broad research activities. My research in computational biology and data analysis complement several other research groups but my research areas are unique and needed here. I feel like if I was at another larger institution, I would be seen as replaceable because other people would be doing very similar things.  I also feel that the students appreciate having international teachers with different backgrounds and experiences. This helps give them more choices for research supervision during their education. 

I also think the international bachelor’s program  is special at Roskilde University. There are students from all over the world here, but many Danish students are also in the international program. Not all universities in Denmark have such an integrated international bachelor’s degree program with courses taught in English. 

John Shorter - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal

I am a guest researcher at Roskilde University. I knew about the university because my home country university collaborated with some professors from Roskilde University. I came here through an application for a guest researcher position.
I chose to come to Roskilde University because Europe's rich history and civilization attracted me, and Denmark's high academic standards, level of civilization, and proficient English skills appealed to me.

Roskilde University and the Department of Communication and Arts (IKH), where I am based, have been very friendly and inclusive towards me. I have participated in a series of their academic and staff activities, gaining a great deal through this, and my expectations have been met.

You can come to this university without mental burden, where you can engage in academia peacefully and live a happy and content life. The university has a very beautiful natural environment, a vibrant academic atmosphere, friendly staff, and high administrative efficiency. International exchanges are welcome, so please just bring your research topics with you.
 

As a data engineer at Roskilde University, my role is pivotal in preparing a comprehensive data platform to serve the entire university community. I am entrusted with the crucial responsibility of designing and implementing a robust infrastructure that enables the seamless collection, storage, and access of data from diverse sources across the university. This platform empowers researchers, administrators, and academic staff to harness the power of data for various purposes, from academic research and decision-making to enhancing the overall efficiency of university operations. I work diligently to ensure data integrity, security, and accessibility, while also optimizing data pipelines to deliver real-time insights and support data-driven initiatives. By creating a unified data platform, I play a fundamental role in advancing Roskilde University's mission to excel in research, teaching, and knowledge exchange through the efficient management and utilization of data.

I chose to come to Denmark and apply to Roskilde University for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Denmark has a renowned reputation for its high-quality education, progressive research environment, and strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. These factors aligned with my academic and professional aspirations, making it an attractive destination for furthering my career. 

Additionally, Roskilde University stood out as a unique institution that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages a student-centered approach to education. I was drawn to the university's emphasis on problem-based learning, which I believe is a valuable approach to equipping students with practical skills and preparing them for the real world.

Furthermore, Denmark's inclusive and welcoming society, its strong focus on work-life balance, and the general quality of life in the country were factors that greatly influenced my decision. The country's commitment to sustainability and its international outlook were in line with my personal values and goals. All these elements together made Denmark and Roskilde University a natural choice for me to pursue my academic and professional journey.

As a data engineer working at Roskilde University, my expectations have largely been met, and I am generally satisfied with my experience at the university. There are several key reasons for this:

1. Inclusive Environment: Denmark's inclusive and welcoming culture has made my experience as an international employee highly positive. The supportive atmosphere both at the university and in the country has contributed to a sense of belonging.
2. Innovation and Resources: Roskilde University invests in cutting-edge technology and data infrastructure, which aligns with my role as a data engineer. The university's commitment to innovation and providing the necessary resources for data management and analysis has enabled me to excel in my position.

Before arriving to Denmark as an international employee, you have to prepare for certain things, such as: 

1. Prepare for Danish Weather: Denmark experiences varying weather conditions, with cold winters and mild summers. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for different seasons, including warm clothing and rain gear.
2. Learn About Danish Culture: Familiarize yourself with Danish culture, customs, and social norms. Danes are known for their politeness and respect for personal space, so understanding these cultural aspects can help you adapt more easily.
3. Networking: Make an effort to build a social and professional network. Engage in campus events, join student or employee organizations, and participate in extracurricular activities to meet people from different backgrounds.
4. Embrace the Experience: Finally, embrace the experience with an open mind. Studying or working in a foreign country offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. Make the most of it by engaging in cultural exchange, trying local cuisine, and exploring the beautiful Danish landscape.

There are a few things that makes Roskilde University a special place to work, it is things like: 

1. Interdisciplinary Approach: One of the defining characteristics of Roskilde University is its strong commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Working here allows professionals from various fields to interact and collaborate on projects, which leads to innovative and holistic solutions to complex problems.
2. Student-Centered Learning: The university places a high value on student-centered learning and problem-based education. As an employee, you have the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and engaging learning environment that focuses on active participation, critical thinking, and practical skills development.
3. Sustainability and Innovation: The university places a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Working here offers the opportunity to be part of projects that contribute to a more sustainable future, which can be highly motivating and rewarding.
4. Work-Life Balance: Denmark is renowned for its excellent work-life balance, and this is reflected in the university culture. Employees often benefit from flexible work arrangements and support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Tips and tricks for new employees: 

1. Residence Permits and Immigration: Ensure that you are aware of the visa and residence permit requirements for your specific situation. The application process can take time, so it's advisable to start this process well in advance of your planned arrival.
2. Taxation: Understand the Danish tax system, including your tax obligations as an international employee. Denmark has a progressive tax system, and tax rates can be relatively high, so it's important to be aware of your financial responsibilities.
3. Cultural Integration: Immerse yourself in Danish culture and society. Engage with local traditions, events, and activities to better integrate and appreciate your new environment.
    

My research centers on the normative transformations of United Nations peacekeeping operations and the involvement of Brazil and other Latin American countries in this dynamic. I hold the position of Assistant Professor at the Brazilian Army Command and General Staff College, and I have secured funding to conduct a portion of my research abroad. Subsequently, I initiated contact with Professor Markus-Michael Müller, who graciously invited me to advance my research with his support as a guest researcher at Roskilde University.

As for Denmark, it represents a nation distinct from Brazil and other regions where I have had the privilege to work, such as Timor-Leste. The prospect of experiencing this distinct context while maintaining academic excellence was an alluring proposition. I applied for the position of a visiting researcher at Roskilde University with the aim of advancing my research in partnership with Professor Markus Michael Müller, a distinguished authority in international security and a noted scholar of Latin American matters, who serves as a significant reference for me.

I have been here for only two months, and I still have some time ahead, but so far, my expectations have been satisfactorily fulfilled. The university's infrastructure is highly commendable, and the individuals working here consistently make efforts to facilitate and enhance a researcher's productivity.

Researching extensively about Denmark helped me in the adaptation process. Although I have lived in other countries, each place has its peculiarities, and understanding them can be a valuable shortcut. My advice regarding the university is to make the most of everything it has to offer. The academic events are quite engaging, the library is excellent, and the campus facilities are also outstanding.

What makes Roskilde University a special place to work is the people. For those arriving from abroad and lacking familiarity with the local context, being able to depend on the support and welcoming attitude offered by individuals such as Julia the Global HR Partner (juliacl@ruc.dk), Marianne Nørgaard Clement in my department, Professor Müller, and the entire Service Desk and Library team significantly facilitates the process of adaptation.

Guilherme Moreira Dias - research profile at Roskilde University Research Portal