Two Cyber Defense Researchers

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.

Project background

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

The Cyber Defense Project is looking for two highly motivated researchers to join the team. The Project conducts research within four areas: (a) geopolitics in cyberspace (ex. attribution, conduct of threat actors, threat landscape evolution, information warfare, and dis- and misinformation; (b) the Law of Armed Conflict and the implementation of norms and rules for state behavior in cyberspace; (c) national cyber defense strategies; and (d) military/tactical thinking and doctrinal developments (incl. the domain synergies between cyber and EW, cyber and space, and cyber and information warfare.

Job description

You work will center around conducting in-depth research within the four issue areas outlined and related topics. Depending on your expertise and interests, you will be tasked with accumulating specialized knowledge and insights, conducting rigorous academic research, and finding answers to specific policy questions. This also includes lending on-demand comprehensive policy advice and being able to present your expertise and knowledge clearly and concisely.

You will publish your research findings in policy relevant and scientific publications and will disseminate your knowledge through dialogue with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders.

Ideally, you would be able to join as soon as possible.

Your profile

At a minimum you should have an MA degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., International Relations, Security Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, Technology Policy). Recent MA graduates are encouraged to apply. We are specifically looking for analysts that have experience and/or interest in one or more of the following five research topics: (a) information warfare/dis- and misinformation, (b) cyber and space, (c) machine learning, (d) quantum computing, and (e) attribution.

The CSS is a multi-lingual working environment, so proficiency in English is required. Knowledge of one Swiss national language – or the willingness to acquire German language skills on the job – would be an asset. Work experience in international organisations, think tanks, or government agencies would be an advantage, as is knowledge of the Swiss political landscape.

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 center of Zurich. Further 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:

• One-page CV
• One-page letter of interest explaining your skill set, expertise, and motivation
• Two single-authored writing samples (e.g., an op-ed, academic article, or policy brief)

There is no application deadline; the position will remain open until it is filled. 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 website www.css.ethz.ch For questions about the position, please contact [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.