The Twin Transition: Digitalization and the world of work
This two-day PhD course focuses on digitalisation as a central driver of contemporary labour market transformation, while situating this process within the broader context of the ‘twin transition’. It examines how the rapid diffusion of digital technologies like AI, reshape work, organisations, and systems of labour market governance, while also critically reflecting on the environmental impacts and carbon footprint of new technologies.
Designed as a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning space, the course encourages participants to critically reflect on the interdependencies and potential tensions between digital and green transformations, and on how future labour markets may evolve in an era of accelerating technological change and growing environmental constraints.
When: October 29-30, 2026
Where: University of Oslo and Institute for Social Research, Oslo
Registration: will open soon
Language: English
ECTS: Students who complete the course will receive a diploma, which can be used to apply for credit approval at their home institution. You may attend the course without completing the course assignment if you do not require the diploma.
Who is it for? Members of DIGIT research school and DIGIT partners. The course is also open to non-DIGIT participants, please contact the DIGIT coordinator if you would like to attend.
Content
This two-day PhD course focuses on digitalisation as a central driver of contemporary labour market transformation, while situating this process within the broader context of the ‘twin transition’. It examines how the rapid diffusion of digital technologies like AI, reshape work, organisations, and systems of labour market governance, while also critically reflecting on the environmental impacts and carbon footprint of new technologies.
Drawing on leading research in sociology, political science, labour studies, and public administration, the course explores the implications of digital transformation for employment structures, working conditions, skill formation, and organisational practices.
The programme provides participants with the opportunity to present their own research and receive constructive feedback from peers and academic organisers, fostering an interactive learning environment. It brings together academic experts, public-sector practitioners, and social partners to offer multi-actor perspectives on digitalization and automation in practice. Designed as a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning space, the course encourages participants to critically reflect on the interdependencies and potential tensions between digital and green transformations, and on how future labour markets may evolve in an era of accelerating technological change and growing environmental constraints.
Learning outcomes and competence
The course is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to engage in advanced research and critical analysis in the evolving field of digitalization and the world of work. The following are the key learning outcomes:
1. Methodological Expertise: Students will gain proficiency in a range of research methods, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches, enabling them to design and conduct rigorous research on digitalization and work.
2. Critical Analysis: Participants will enhance their ability to critically assess existing research and literature in the field, identifying gaps, limitations, and emerging trends.
3. Interdisciplinary Insights: The course will expose participants to interdisciplinary perspectives, fostering a holistic understanding of digitalization's implications on labor markets from various academic disciplines.
4. Collaborative Skills: Participants will have opportunities to engage in peer discussions, group projects, and panel discussions, enhancing their collaborative and communication skills. Through guest lectures, participants will gain insights into the practical implications of digitalization on labor markets from civil society actors working with the topic
The course will also provide a platform for participants to connect with peers, scholars, and civil society actors, building valuable networks for future research collaborations and career opportunities.
Assessment methods and criteria
To receive a course diploma, participants will be required to attend both days of the course and complete an essay assigned by the course organisers. You can use this diploma to apply for credit approval at your own institution, but it is your own institution that will determine whether and how many study credits you will be awarded. A minimum of 80% attendance is required.
DIGIT will reccommend 2 ECTS for students who submit and pass the work requirement.
Financial support
For DIGIT participants residing outside Oslo, we will cover travel expenses. You are responsible for booking your own flight/train tickets in accordance with your university's guidelines and the Personnel Handbook for State Employees. DIGIT covers expenses up to a maximum of 2800 NOK for the travel. Hotel accommodation is covered directly by DIGIT.
Organizers
Helena Seibicke, Researcher, ARENA, Department of Political Science, University of Oslo
Kari Steen-Johnsen, Research professor, Institute for Social Research
Janis Umblijs, Research Director, NOVA, OsloMet
Course leader - Helena Seibicke
Helena Seibicke speciales in the intersection of knowledge and governance, with research focused on climate governance, digitalisation, the role of research and scientific advice in policymaking, and the functioning of scientific advisory bodies and expert groups. She is currently researcher on the EGRUiEN and ACCELZ projects at ARENA Centre for European Studies, and the Department of Political Science, University of Oslo, in which she examines the interactions between political actors and political institutions in the green and digital transitions. She currently serves as Chair of the steering committee for the Standing Group on Knowledge and Governance in the European Consortium for Political Research (ECPR). Helena holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Oslo, an MA in Political Communication from the University of Kent, and a BA in European Studies from the University of Manchester.
Please feel free to contact the DIGIT coordinator should you have any practical questions.
For questions related to the course content, please contact Helena Seibicke.