Research Assistant in Quantitative Social Science

20%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Public Policy Group at ETH Zurich invites applications for a research assistant in quantitative social science.

Project background

The positionis part of a larger project on online discourse. In this project, we study the dynamics of public discourse online, including, but not limited to, hate speech and its targets, deliberative discourse, opinion formation, as well as the effects of online discourse on citizens’ and elites’ attitudes and perceptions. To answer this question, we collect data from a variety of media partners, whose data we automatically process, analyze, and report.

Job description

Your task will be to support the project in a variety of ways. This includes tasks such as the cleaning and processing of incoming data, visualization and preliminary analyses, and potentially the support in the training of Large Language Models. In addition, you might support the team in smaller tasks, such as the annotation of texts, literature searches, and more.

Profile

The ideal candidate will, at the time of appointment, be enrolled in a social or economic discipline at a Swiss university / ETH Zurich. In addition, the candidate is independent and reliable and has a structured, precise working style. A strong command of English, good knowledge of R, experience with handling data, and a solid background in quantitative methods are essential requirements for this position. Knowledge of Python, familiarity with Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models, or Machine Learning, experience with version control tools such as Git, interest in social media and/or public discourse, as well as a good command of German are desirable skills for this position. Candidates should provide evidence of successful completion of courses relevant to the position or other documentation that they have the required skills.

Workplace

Workplace

We offer

We offer hands-on experience in a social science research project and professional supervision by experienced researchers. The position is secured for 6 months starting September 2024. You will be integrated into a dedicated research team and remunerated in accordance with ETH guidelines.

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, including

• a cover letter
• CV
• study transcripts

Only applications submitted through our online application portal are accepted.

For further information about the position please contact the lab manager, Selina Kurer: [email protected] (Subject: Research Assistant Hate Speech 2024). For more information on the Public Policy Group, please visit our website .

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.