Doctoral Student in Environmental Politics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Institute of Science, Technology and Policy (ISTP) is offering a fully funded position for a Doctoral Student inEnvironmental Politics. The preferred starting date is March-April 2023. The funding is for up to four years.

Project background

The research will take place in the context of the Swiss Mobility Panel , focusing on political components shaping net zero emissions trajectories. The research will be led and supervised by Professors Thomas Bernauer and Kay Axhausen .

Job description

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector to net zero within the next thirty years poses particularly difficult political challenges – necessitating broad citizen support and consumer acceptance. We are looking for a doctoral student who will study the political feasibility of mobility policy instruments and policy mixes using surveys and embedded experimental designs.

Your profile

You should hold a Master's degree in  Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Transportation, or an interdisciplinary degree (e.g. in environmental sciences or planning) that has a strong social sciences methods component,  and be very familiar with theoretical approaches to public policy and environmental politics. Excellent command both of German and English is essential and experience with survey research and survey and experimental methodologies will be an 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 informationabout the ISTP, 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.