Senior Researcher for Transatlantic and European Security

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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

Our CSS Think Tank serves as an important link between academia and practitioners and as a point of contact and reference for the wider public.

Project background

Within the think tank, the Swiss and Euro-​​Atlantic Security Team analyzes issues in Swiss foreign and security policy, developments in the Euro-​​Atlantic security architecture and in Europe’s southern and eastern neighborhoods. The team publishes the monthly CSS Analyses in Security Policy and the annual Bulletin zur schweizerischen Sicherheitspolitik (in German). Members of the team contribute to public debates through regular analyses, media contributions, and panel discussions.

Job description

Your duties will include but are not limited to:

• Producing analytical, policy-oriented CSS publications and studies on transatlantic security, NATO transformation, NATO-EU relations and/or the foreign and security policies of individual European states.
• Sharing editorial responsibilities for the monthly trilingual policy-brief series CSS Analyses in Security Policy.
• Planning and organizing CSS events for policymakers, and government officials as well as for the broader Swiss security policy community.
• Cultivating and further developing relations with CSS partners in Berne.
• Publishing your research in policy-oriented international publications.
• Addressing a broader audience through presentations and media engagement.

Ideally, you would be able to start in July 2023.

Your profile

• At least 4 years of experience working in a think tank, in academia, government or an international organization.
• Broad knowledge of transatlantic relations and European security.
• A Master’s degree in political science, international relations or a related discipline and excellent analytical skills.
• Interest in taking on responsibility for the quality of the content of CSS publications such as CSS Analyses.
• Excellent writing and editing skills in English and/or German.
• English proficiency in addition to at least one Swiss national language.
• Knowledge of Swiss foreign and security policy is an advantage.

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

We offer you an exciting opportunity to develop and showcase your expertise in a think tank that is both university-based and close to the policy-making environment in Bern.

The position is non-permanent: The term of appointment is 3 years and may be renewed for another 3 years. In addition, we offer attractive working conditions and a workplace in the centre of Zurich. Training and career development are central elements of our personnel policy.

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Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by April 26th 2023:

• CV
• letter of interest explaining the skills and motivation you would bring to the post
• one to two single-authored writing samples (e.g. an academic article, or policy brief)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about us can be found on our websitewww.css.ethz.ch . For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Sophie-Charlotte Fischer at[email protected] .

For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich  apply.

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.