Franklin University Switzerland is looking for 2 PhD Students in Political Science

Research Project: DIVIDE – Effects of Secession Referenda on Interethnic Relations
Location: Franklin University Switzerland, Sorengo (Lugano), Switzerland
Starting Date: September 1, 2025 (or upon agreement)
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
Salary: CHF 47,000–50,000 annually (in line with Swiss National Science Foundation conditions)

Franklin University Switzerland (FUS) is pleased to invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in Political Science within the framework of the SNSF research project DIVIDE, led by Professor Oliver Strijbis. This four-year position offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to develop their doctoral project within a dynamic international academic environment while contributing to a major research initiative exploring the societal impacts of secession referenda.

About Franklin University Switzerland

Franklin University Switzerland is a private liberal arts university located in Sorengo, a picturesque suburb of Lugano in southern Switzerland. The institution is uniquely accredited both in Switzerland and the United States: it is recognized by the Swiss Accreditation Council and authorized to grant Swiss-accredited Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral degrees. Additionally, FUS holds U.S. accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, authorizing the conferment of American-accredited undergraduate and graduate degrees.

About the PhD Position and the DIVIDE Project

The successful candidate will join Franklin’s Political Science doctoral program and be affiliated with DIVIDE, a research project funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). The project examines the effects of secession referenda on interethnic relations, addressing a timely and politically sensitive issue with global relevance. Through mixed-methods research and comparative case studies, DIVIDE investigates how demands for political autonomy and territorial separation influence the interactions between ethnic groups and societal cohesion.

As a PhD researcher, you will actively contribute to the project’s core objectives while simultaneously developing your independent doctoral research within its broader thematic scope. At least 80% of your working time will be dedicated to research, ensuring ample opportunity for deep intellectual engagement and scholarly development.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the research team to support data collection, analysis, and interpretation related to interethnic dynamics in the context of secession referenda.
• Develop and execute an independent doctoral dissertation aligned with the broader themes of the DIVIDE project.
• Contribute to scholarly publications and present research findings at conferences and seminars.
• Participate in doctoral training modules, workshops, and academic development activities.
• Engage in the academic life of the university and participate in regular progress evaluations.

Eligibility Criteria

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Political Science or a related field. Applicants who will complete their degree before September 1, 2025, are also eligible.
• Demonstrated academic excellence, including strong performance in coursework and a high-quality Master’s thesis.
• A solid foundation in quantitative research methods and familiarity with statistical analysis tools.
• A strong interest in political behavior, nationalism, and questions of identity and intergroup relations.
• High level of motivation to pursue a career in academia or research.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Commitment to learning Italian to at least A1 level within the first two years of the position.

Desirable Skills:

• Previous research experience related to ethnic politics, political conflict, or electoral behavior.
• Familiarity with additional languages relevant to the project’s geographic areas of study.
• Experience working in multicultural or international research environments.

Application Process

To apply, candidates should submit their complete application as a single PDF file containing the following documents:

• A letter of interest (max 2 pages) outlining your motivation, relevant academic background, and alignment with the DIVIDE project.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Official academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees).
• A writing sample (e.g., your Master’s thesis or a relevant academic paper).
• Contact information for two academic references who are familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation.

Please send your application via email to: [email protected]

For any questions regarding the position or the application process, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Oliver Strijbis directly at: [email protected]. Further information about his research can be found at: https://www.fus.edu/academics/faculty/oliver-strijbis

Franklin University Switzerland is committed to building a diverse academic community. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

Join us in exploring the political and social forces shaping global societies—apply by June 30, 2025.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.