Doctoral Student in Environmental Politics in Zürich

The International Political Economy and Environmental Politics group led by Professor Thomas Bernauer is offering two fully funded positions for Doctoral Students in Environmental Politics. The preferred starting date is March-May 2023. The funding is for up to four years, which is commonly the time it takes to complete a doctorate in this area at ETH Zurich.

The International Political Economy and Environmental Politics is based both at the Center for Comparative and International Studies (CIS) and the Institute of Science, Technology and Policy (ISTP). Its research and teaching focus on examining the role of citizens and consumers as well as national socio-economic and political conditions in providing solutions to transnational environmental and economic problems.

The research activity of the two doctoral students will be part of ongoing research projects that focus on public attitudes, behaviors and policy support with respect to climate change. Particularly, emphasizing how policy designs relate to variation in public support, shaping the political feasibility of climate policy interventions.  The research relies primarily on original large-scale public opinion surveys and survey embedded experiments in Switzerland and other countries.

You should hold a Master's degree in Political Science, Economics, Sociology, or Social Psychology, or an interdisciplinary degree (e.g. in environmental sciences, sustainability or planning) that has a strong social sciences methods component,  and be familiar with theoretical approaches to public policy and environmental politics. Excellent command of English is essential and experience with survey research and survey and experimental methodologies will be an asset. German language skills are also a desired asset.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.