Experiences of American researchers in EU: Social humanities field in focus

Anthropologist and legal scholar Dr. Niklas Hultin (Associate Professor, George Mason University) joins EURAXESS Smart Talks to unpack what it really means to build a career at the intersection of anthropology, law, history, and international relations—with a focus on security practices in West Africa. We explore his transatlantic journey (Sweden ↔ United States), consulting and expert-witness work, and practical advice for early-stage researchers considering moves between the EU and the US. Expect candid reflections on funding landscapes, teaching vs. research roles, work–life balance, language and cultural adaptation, and why you should “never let someone say no for you” when applying for grants or opportunities.

⏱️ Question Timestamps (Guide)

Note: Timestamps reference the episode transcript’s timecodes.

• 00:01:29 — Introduction to field & academic journey
   “Could you introduce us to your field of study and your academic journey?” 
• 00:03:43 — Was academia the first choice? Why move to Sweden’s government agency?
• 00:06:44 — Teaching vs. research: preference and why
   Integrating both, liberal-arts background, and post-COVID teaching reflections. 
• 00:13:00 — EU vs. US: funding structures & work–life balance
   NSF experience, relative acceptance rates impression, foundations, and cultural norms around weekend work/admin.  
• 00:18:46 — Is weekend work “normal” in the US?
   Flexibility vs. workload; classroom hours and publishing expectations. 
• 00:22:16 —Teaching, research, and service—how it’s framed vs. the reality. 
• 00:24:02 — Advice for US researchers moving to Europe
   Language requirements, cultural communication, immigration logistics, family considerations. [ 
• 00:31:00 — Is it easier to move EU→US or US→EU?
   Prestige, institutional recognition, and field-specific patterns. 
• 00:34:00 — Challenges & opportunities shaping the career path
   Networking, grant-writing courage, and the Cambridge postdoc “no → yes” story. 
• 00:40:00 — Why return to the US?
• 00:41:20 — Full-time professor vs. external engagement
   University support for consulting/expert-witness work and public engagement. 
• 00:42:50 — Final advice & key takeaways for early-stage researchers
   Apply widely, stay active in your field’s discourse, embrace transatlantic opportunities. 
• 00:45:50 — Closing and credits
   Hosts, editor, and dedication.