Postdoc position in the professorship of history and philosophy of mathematical sciences

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The professorship for history and philosophy of mathematical sciences , led by Prof. Roy Wagner, is a place for reflecting on all aspects of mathematical knowledge from the point of view of the humanities. Our team studies various historical and contemporary mathematical cultures from a multitude of methodological approaches.

Job description

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to conduct independent research on the development, practice, or social and cultural roles of mathematics (including mathematical aspects of other sciences) from the points of view of history, philosophy or neighbouring humanities disciplines (such as STS, cultural studies, social anthropology). 

• You will be in charge of your own research
• You will take part in the professorship’s academic and social activities
• You will teach one course of your choice per semester (2 weekly hours) in the MAGPW  or SiP  programs.
• The working language is English
• The position is full time (41 hours per week) by default, but can be reduced for care-work, health, or wellbeing. 
• The starting date is around Sep 1, 2024. The position is for two years with the possibility of extension.

Your profile

You are required to have a doctoral degree in a field related to your research project before starting at ETH. You must be able to initiate an interesting research project and develop it independently. You must be willing to exchange with your fellow team members, support them, and learn from them. Non-standard research topics, questions and methods are encouraged. Among other things, we encourage projects on non-European mathematics, mathematics in practical and commercial contexts, cross-cultural mathematical exchange, and philosophical projects that consider mathematics as a practice, rather than as an abstract ideal. The chair is not a good environment for strict analytic philosophy projects, but is open to projects that integrate analytic philosophy methodologies.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

• You will have access to teaching assistants, research and travel funding, and the wide variety of ETH career development resources
• You will be connected to our international network of collaborators
• We are open to flexible working hours and partial working from home
• The pay-scale is available here

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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

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to your online applications by March 31, including:

• CV with list of publications
• A one page summary of your PhD (up to 3,500 characters)
• A two page presentation of your research plans during your time in the professorship (up to 7,000 characters, excluding references)
• A half page statement (up to 2,000 characters) explaining how you can contribute to improving wellbeing, diversity, inclusion and/or equity  in the research group, department, university, or discipline. This may include relevant background, training, activities, etc.
• The names and contact details of 2-3 references (no reference letters are required at this stage)

The applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged. A shortlist will be prepared on an ongoing basis, and closed in April. All candidates will be informed whether they were shortlisted. Shortlisted candidates may be asked for additional documents (such as references, writing samples, etc.). The shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online during March, April and May. A decision will be made by the end of May. 

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Roy Wagner at [email protected]. 

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.