The Department of Political Science at the University of Zurich invites applications for 1 doctoral (Ph.D.) / assistant position (Assistenz) in the research group of the Chair of Comparative Politics held by Prof. Daniele Caramani.
The IPZ offers excellent research conditions and a stimulating academic environment. Through its collaborations, research centres and exchange programmes, it is widely internationally connected. The IPZ is committed to promote young scholars in their career advancement and provides strong methodological support.
Your responsibilities
The positions will be filled for 3 years and can be renewed for 1 year contingent on Ph.D. progress, research productivity, teaching quality and commitment to chair and departmental activities. The tasks include:
• Writing a Ph.D. dissertation based on the candidate’s own research interests in the broad area of comparative politics.
• Teaching undergraduate seminars or introductory courses in English or German (app. 2 hours weekly in 2 semesters of 14 weeks), advising students, preparing and marking examinations, and occasional administrative tasks.
• Participation to the department’s activities and to the doctoral programme.
• Participation to summer schools, scholarly conferences and scientific networks.
Your profile
The successful candidates will engage in research and teaching in the area of comparative politics. They are expected to pursue own research interests, participate to international conferences and produce outstanding scholarship with publications in top journals and presses. Candidates must possess encompassing theoretical knowledge of comparative politics, solid training in quantitative methods and statistical packages (Stata and R), international experience, the ability and motivation to work in team and conduct independent research, and the ability to work fluently in English and/or German.
What we offer
• Integration in a leading department with highly motivated and engaged members.
• Possibility to independently develop a research agenda.
• Financial and academic support from the research group and department.
• Salary according to cantonal guidelines approx. 57’800 CHF per year (gross salary, 0.6 FTE).
Place of work
Zurich – Oerlikon
Start of employment
February 1, 2026
Applications by: October 31, 2025
Interviews: in the course of November, 2025
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for this position, please upload your application as one pdf-file, including motivation letter, CV, proof of academic performance and (if available) a writing sample (e.g., seminar / research paper) to www.ipz.uzh.ch/de/ueber-uns/offene-stellen/2025-PhD-Caramani.html
Further information
Informal inquiries are encouraged (0041 44 634 4010 / caramani@ipz.uzh.ch).
