Doctoral Student in Environmental Politics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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.

Project background

The International Political Economy and Environmental Politics group 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.

Job description

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.

Your profile

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.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

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.

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We value diversity

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

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application including the following documents:

• a one-page letter outlining your motivation, skills, and how you could contribute to the research project mentioned;
• a CV;
• two writing samples (e.g., parts of your Master thesis, research papers);
• and your Bachelor and Master level study transcripts - all in one single pdf-file

We only accept applications submitted through the ETH online application portal. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

For further information about the group, please visit our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Keith Smith, by email  (no applications please).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.