Internship Program 2023 at the Center for Security Studies

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich is a center of competence for Swiss and international security policy. It offers security policy expertise in research, teaching, and consultancy.

Job description

We offer four eight-week internships for bachelor and master students in international relations in their final year of study. The place of work will be the CSS offices in Zurich.

Interns will contribute to the CSS research projects, assist the senior researchers with their research, editorial, and networking activities, and co-author articles with CSS researchers in one of the following areas:

• Swiss/Transatlantic/European/Global Security
• mediation and peace support (mainly preparation and realization of the PMC course )
• socio-technical resilience/civil protection
• emerging technologies
• cyber defense
• nuclear deterrence and disarmament
• multilateralism

Your profile

• Excellent communication skills in English
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
• The ability to read and analyze content quickly and objectively
• A detailed knowledge of current affairs, e.g. Swiss security policy
• A strong work ethic and the ability to learn quickly
• Initiative and a willingness to participate in, and contribute to, the activities of the CSS.

Please note that due to Swiss labour laws only EU 25 / EFTA nationals may apply.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

The CSS is a multi-lingual working environment, so proficiency in English alongside at least one Swiss national language is required. 

chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
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 by the end of January 2023 with the following documents:

• Application letter: a one-page statement of purpose outlining your research interests and why you would like to work at the CSS
• Resume (max. 1 page)
• Copies of academic transcripts and/or certificates
• A writing sample in English, e.g. a university paper, an article
• Two letters of recommendation, preferably academic, to be sent directly by the referees to the CSS Institute Manager by Mail .

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications sent via e-mail or postal services will not be considered.
For questions about the position, please contact Daniel Frey, at [email protected] (no applications).

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.