PhD position in Human Geography

The University of Zurich offers a part-time PhD position in Human Geography within an SNSF research project. The role involves qualitative fieldwork, data analysis, teaching, and dissertation work in German-speaking Switzerland.

This part-time doctoral position is embedded in an SNSF-funded research initiative and a structured doctoral program at the University of Zurich. The successful candidate will lead original fieldwork, analyze data, and contribute to academic and teaching activities within the Human Geography department.

Responsibilities

• Lead the research project, including conducting qualitative interviews with headteachers and minoritized students in German-speaking Switzerland.
• Perform data analysis, which may involve participative workshops, and write a paper-based doctoral dissertation.
• Take part in project workshops, international conferences, and help produce academic and practice-oriented publications.
• Support teaching in Human Geography and provide services to the Geography Teacher Training unit (GTT) at GIUZ.
• Engage with the Zurich Graduate School in Geography & Earth System Science.

Requirements

• Hold or be close to completing a Master's degree in geography, sociology, educational studies, youth studies, social anthropology, social work, or a closely related discipline.
• Show significant experience in qualitative research methods and a strong interest in issues of inequality and justice.
• Have a genuine interest in fieldwork and the perspectives of young people.
• Be driven to critically examine questions of inequality, justice, and institutional discrimination.
• Possess strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Be fluent in both German and English, both spoken and written.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with participative research methods.

What the company offers

• Work in a supportive and stimulating research environment as part of an SNSF project.
• Receive regular mentoring and guidance to support an academic career.
• Join a structured doctoral program.
• Earn a salary according to the Swiss National Science Foundation scale.
• Have a dedicated workplace equipped with necessary technical tools.
• Benefit from a culturally diverse and inspiring institute and campus, along with various further education opportunities at UZH.
• Enjoy Zurich's excellent living environment, rich cultural activities, and easy access to lakes, countryside, and mountains.

About the company

The University of Zurich is Switzerland's largest university, employing around 10,000 staff and hosting approximately 30,000 students. It offers a vibrant, culturally diverse academic environment with manifold opportunities for professional development.

• A stimulating and supportive research environment.
• A culturally diverse and inspiring institute and campus.
• Manifold opportunities for further education at UZH.