PhD position

The Transdisciplinarity-Lab (TdLab) at the Department of Environmental Systems Science (D-USYS) offers a rich and lively learning environment. Our research and teaching cross disciplinary boundaries and are organized in close collaboration with colleagues from different disciplinary backgrounds and stakeholders. Our work focuses on advancing theories and methods for inter- and transdisciplinary research.

We seek a doctoral researcher to join our team for the project «Investigating interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity: intersections of practices, culture(s) and policy in collaborative knowledge production» (INTERSECTIONS), funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). The Cultural Studies of Science Group (CSTS), in which this position is embedded, is a dynamic team studying and applying inter- and transdisciplinary methods and theories.  

This project studies interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research as means of achieving transformative change. Our main aim is advancing the theoretical and methodological foundations for investigating, supporting and leveraging interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity. It also focuses on the current policy debates around the impacts of and funding for collaborative research.

More details

You will explore the intersections among practices, cultures and policies in order to improve the responsiveness of inter- and transdisciplinary research to address scientific and societal challenges. Your tasks include to:

• Develop independent research related to the project’s main aims for a PhD dissertation project
• Conduct qualitative research, including document analysis and long-term data collection in Switzerland
• Perform ethnographic field research in Swiss National Centre(s) of Competence in Research (NCCR)
• Participate in the organisation of meetings, and workshops
• Cooperate in the publication of academic articles, briefs and/or reports
• Contribute to the CSTS Group in consolidating its research and teaching programmes, and website

This is a fixed term position (4 years). Start date: August 2023.

• Master’s degree in science and technology studies (STS), political science, anthropology, sociology, or a closely related field of study. The Master’s degree must have been obtained and the final evaluation must be available by the application deadline.
• Experience with qualitative research methods (e.g., ethnography, semi-structured interviews, focus groups) and interpretative social theory. 
• Interest in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research and engaging with other knowledge cultures.
• Familiarity with STS concepts and theories.  
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently, excellent organizational skills, high reliability, and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are essential. Proficiency in German and/or French is a strong advantage.

We are looking for inspiring students who want to work in and contribute to an interdisciplinary research environment.​​​​​​

Curious? So are we.

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