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.

The CSS research group conducts innovative and politically relevant academic research on contemporary security issues, offers expertise at the science-policy interface for practitioners and the public, and provides high-​quality teaching to both academic-​ and practice-​oriented students.

Our research is both theoretically rigorous and empirically grounded, utilizing a wide range of methodologies. We focus on evolving threats to states and societies, as well as how key actors organize to address these challenges. Our sustained inquiry into political violence, security paradigms, and the institutions, processes, and policies aimed at reducing insecurity shapes everything we do.

Expected starting date: January 2025

We are seeking a highly motivated doctoral candidate to develop an original, independent research project in one of the following areas: Conflict Resolution & Violence Prevention / Digital Technologies, Strategic Competition & Security / The Intersection of Economy & Security.

At ETH Zurich, you'll have access to generous funding for conferences, summer schools, and data collection, with minimal teaching and administrative duties. Our collaborative team works on site right in the heart of Zurich, and we’re looking for someone eager to contribute not only to their own research but also to the broader intellectual life of our group and ETH.

We seek candidates with a master’s degree in political science, International Relations, Political Economy, or a related field. We encourage interdisciplinary applicants with a strong interest in addressing contemporary security issues to apply.

We offer a dynamic, challenging role within an inspiring environment at a world-renowned university. Career development is central to our culture, and we’re committed to supporting your professional growth.

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.

We look forward to receiving your application through our online portal, which should include the following documents:

• A letter of interest detailing your skills and motivation for the position
• Your CV
• A 1–2-page research proposal or idea
• One or two single-authored writing samples (e.g., seminar paper, MA thesis, or academic article)

Application deadline is December 1, 2024. Please note that we do not accept applications via email or postal services. For more information about the CSS, visit our website. For specific questions about the position, feel free to contact Prof. Andreas Wenger at wenger@sipo.gess.ethz.ch (no applications).

For more information about the CSS, visit our website. For specific questions about the position, feel free to contact Prof. Andreas Wenger at wenger@sipo.gess.ethz.ch (please note: no applications via email).

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.