Exciting Fully-funded x2 PhD Opportunities at the University of Zurich: Join Leading Research Teams in Labour Geography and Geocomputation
Exciting PhD Opportunities at the University of Zurich: Join Leading Research Teams in Labour Geography and Geocomputation
The University of Zurich (UZH), Switzerland’s largest and most prestigious university, is offering two exceptional PhD positions at its Department of Geography. These roles are perfect for early-career researchers passionate about making a societal impact and developing innovative research in the fields of Labour Geography and Geocomputation. The successful candidates will be part of cutting-edge interdisciplinary projects with real-world relevance, working alongside a dynamic team of researchers and policy makers.
PhD in Labour Geography (80%)
Start your academic career with a PhD focused on understanding precarious labour and its visibility in labour market statistics. The Labour Geography Unit at UZH invites applicants to explore new and old forms of precarious work and develop solutions to better incorporate these forms into existing data indicators.
This research will be part of the Public Data Lab, an interdisciplinary project aimed at capturing social, economic, and environmental changes in the Canton of Zurich. The project collaborates with key partners, including the Zurich University of the Arts, the Statistical Office of Canton Zurich, and Opendata.ch. By integrating your research into this lab, you’ll play a pivotal role in helping political decision-makers create effective strategies and policies.
Responsibilities include:
- Researching precarious labour and its societal implications
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams within the Public Data Lab
- Presenting and publishing results at academic conferences
- Contributing to teaching and academic services in the Labour Geography Unit
- Participating in the Graduate School in Geography and Earth System Science
What We’re Looking For:
- A Master’s degree in Human Geography or a related social science discipline
- Knowledge of social science methods in data collection and analysis
- A strong interest in labour issues and precarious work
- Fluency in German and English
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- A commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace
This PhD position offers a structured programme, with 70% protected research time and competitive benefits, including 25 days of holiday per year, regular mentoring, and attractive working conditions.
PhD in Geocomputation (80%)
The Geocomputation Unit is also seeking a PhD candidate to develop a spatially explicit index of multiple deprivation for the Canton of Zurich. This project will lead the way in analyzing how social and economic disparities impact societal outcomes. The goal is to create an indicator that can help policymakers design more effective interventions.
This PhD role is also part of the Public Data Lab, where you’ll collaborate with experts from UZH, Zurich University of the Arts, the Statistical Office of Canton Zurich, and Opendata.ch to co-create and refine deprivation indices.
Responsibilities include:
- Developing the deprivation index and spatial models
- Collaborating within the interdisciplinary Public Data Lab
- Presenting research findings and publishing results
- Contributing to teaching in the Geocomputation Unit
- Participating in the Graduate School in Geography and Earth System Science
What We’re Looking For:
- A Master’s degree in Geography or Geographic Information Science
- Strong skills in GIS and spatial data processing
- A passion for deprivation modeling and its implications for policy
- Fluency in German and English
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- A commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace
This position also offers 70% protected research time, a structured PhD programme, 25 days of holiday, and regular academic supervision, along with a highly supportive and collaborative work environment.
Why Apply to UZH?
At UZH, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a world-class research environment, collaborating with leading scholars and policymakers on impactful projects that address critical social, economic, and environmental issues. Zurich itself offers an unparalleled quality of life, with access to beautiful landscapes, a rich cultural scene, and excellent public services.
What UZH Offers:
- Work-Life Balance with flexible working models
- Childcare support at UZH and ETH Zurich
- Learning and Development through continuing education courses
- Healthcare benefits, including free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Discounts on transport, digital services, and more
- International Services to support those moving to Switzerland
Both positions also offer competitive salaries, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop your research in an inspiring, diverse, and internationally collaborative environment.
How to Apply
To apply for either of these exciting PhD positions, submit the following documents as a single PDF (in German or English):
- A motivation letter explaining why you’re a strong fit for the role
- A CV with contact details for three referees
- Degree transcripts
- A summary of your Master’s thesis (500 words) explaining your scientific motivation, methodology, results, and implications
The deadline for applications is April 10, 2025, but applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled.
For more information about the positions and to apply, visit the UZH website and follow the application instructions.
Join us at UZH and become a part of groundbreaking research that shapes the future of geography, data science, and social policy.
