Postdoctoral Researcher in Science, Technology and Society (STS)

About the role

The Ethics, Technology and Society research group in the Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS) at ETH Zurich invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral researcher in Science, Technology and Society (STS). The position is fixed-term for two years, with possible extension, and is paid according to ETH Zurich's fixed salary rates. It suits researchers who completed their PhD by January 2027 at the latest or within the last two years.

Research focuses on the interplay of science, technology and society, using interpretive, qualitative methods combining ethnographic detail with knowledge of cultural and political contexts, ideally in a cross-national comparative perspective. The project is funded by the SNSF under the title "States of Anxiety: Expertise and Activism in Digital and Ecological Environments" and studies how youth, parents and guardians respond to the impacts of digital technologies in Switzerland and Europe.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out qualitative social science (STS) research, including ethnographic fieldwork, document and policy analysis and historical research, within the project framework
• Work towards publications in recognised international journals, including co-authored papers with other group members
• Engage on the ethical, social and political aspects of digital technologies with the ETH Public Policy School, the university, civil society, activist groups and wider publics
• Take part regularly in group events and help organise meetings, workshops and conferences
• Engage with professors, students and researchers at D-GESS and the Swiss and international STS community
• (Co-)develop and (co-)teach MA and Bachelor courses in the Science in Perspective programme

Required profile

• PhD completed by January 2027, or a dissertation in STS or a related field (history and philosophy of science, anthropology, geography, law, policy studies, innovation studies, sociology, political science) in the last two years; engineers and scientists with extensive STS training are also encouraged to apply
• A research profile in STS shown through publications and/or teaching
• Interest and experience in STS, humanities pedagogy and science-society interfaces
• Broad knowledge of STS topics, theories and methods
• Proficiency in English, and in French or German

Desirable criteria

• Knowledge of co-productionist and comparative approaches in STS
• International experience
• Team-oriented approach

Applicants submit an online application with a CV, list of publications, a two-page motivation letter, a one-page statement linking their research to the project, 1-2 writing samples, references and transcripts. Applications close on 7 December 2026.