In the context of a history project financed by the Swiss National Science Foundation, titled Organised Business and Environmental Governance in Western Europe [1945–1995] and led by Professor Sabine Pitteloud, we are seeking applicants for the position of Doctoral student in history (80%):

– Start date: 01/02/2025 or as agreed

– Contract duration: Four years

Your main tasks:

– Conduct original doctoral research as part of the research project titled Organised Business and Environmental Governance in Western Europe [1945–1995]. The central aim of this project is to shed light on the responses of polluting industries to environmental demands and regulations, as well as discerning how these efforts were coordinated at a political level. Additionally, the research entails an exploration of the connections forged by business associations with the newly established environment ministries/agencies of the 1970s. The thesis is supervised by Professor Sabine Pitteloud and co-supervised by a professor from a different university to be determined depending on the project’s orientation.
– Publish in peer-reviewed journals and/or collective works/special issues planned as part of the project.
– Present the research at various conferences in Switzerland and abroad and contribute to the publication of the research results.
– Participate in the academic life of the Faculty of History at UniDistance Suisse.
– Take part in the organisation of scientific events related to the research project.

Your profile

– Holder of a master’s degree in history or a related discipline, obtained by the contract start date at the latest.
– Able to conduct research in the archives of governmental institutions and private collections. Knowledge of quantitative analysis tools would be an asset.
– Proficiency in English (spoken and written) and passive knowledge of at least two other languages relevant to the project (German, French, Italian). Proficiency in other languages would be an asset.

We offer

– A position at a fast-growing institution where you will consolidate and support the contemporary history research unit.
– The opportunity to conduct independent research leading to a PhD.
– Working conditions are defined by the Swiss National Science Foundation and include a budget allocated to conferences and archival visits required for the project.
– Flexibility and possibility of remote work.

To apply

– Please send a cover letter, your CV, a copy of your master’s and bachelor’s degree certificates, as well as your academic transcript and the names of two references. Please also send a digital version of your master dissertation.
– Please send your complete application to our Human Resources department at jobs@unidistance.chby 29 November 2024. Precedence will be given to applicants residing in Switzerland or intending to relocate.
– For more information regarding the position and the project, Prof Sabine Pitteloud, Assistant Professor and Director of the Master’s Programme, can be contacted by e-mail: sabine.pitteloud@unidistance.ch.