As someone who semi regularly needs to get obscure projects running, than you for your service!

I don’t know the details, but if you get hired for a position here while living abroad, you can get a work visa as skilled labour. That can later be converted to permanent residence after living here for some number of years and passing some language and/or culture test (I think). I know several people who have moved here either through work or university, including from the US. Best of luck no matter where you end up.

At least the lunch, warm cantine food at work is unfortunately not as common here as in many other places.

Norway is good if you get a job before moving. The weather, people, food and welcome is a bit cold, but life is good.