PhD position in political economy of climate change adaptation policies

Join Our Research Efforts in Climate Change Adaptation Policies

The Energy and Technology Policy Group (EPG) at ETH Zurich invites engagement in the field of climate change adaptation policies. This role is integral to the National Center of Competence in Research: Climate Extremes and Society - Strengthening Resilience (NCCR CLIM+), collaborating with numerous experts from ETH Zurich and other Swiss institutions.

Project Overview

• The initiative will involve in-depth analysis of policies designed for adaptation and resilience regarding climate change in Switzerland and beyond.
• There will be a focus on understanding the policy-making process, notably how extreme climate events influence these policies.
• Utilizing public policy theories, a range of qualitative and quantitative empirical methods will be employed.
• The selected candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Schmidt and collaborate with other principal investigators and fellow researchers in the NCCR CLIM+ framework.
• This endeavor will be part of the Einstein School’s doctoral program with an expected completion timeline of 3 to 4 years.
• The position is fixed for a duration of up to four years, following Swiss National Science Foundation PhD regulations.

Candidate Profile

• A Master’s degree in political science, public policy, or a relevant social science field is required. Interdisciplinary backgrounds are encouraged.
• Proficiency in English is essential, with French and/or German as additional languages being beneficial. Familiarity with the Swiss political landscape is advantageous.
• The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to robust scientific inquiry, ensuring relevance to both public and private sector decision-making. Strong teamwork and communication skills are also essential.

Research Environment

• Our group fosters an entrepreneurial research atmosphere, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration on impactful projects at one of continental Europe's premier research universities.
• Engagement in research discussions within the CLIM+ consortium is encouraged, along with opportunities to co-advise master's students.
• EPG is recognized globally for its work in energy policy and collaborates closely with renowned national and international institutions, including Stanford, MIT, Princeton, and the UN.
• Our modern offices are centrally located in Zurich, offering an inspiring environment for research.
• While the exact start date is negotiable, candidates who can commence in fall 2026 are preferred.

Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture that upholds equality of opportunity, values diversity, and nurtures an environment where the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected. Sustainability is integral to our mission, and we are actively pursuing a climate-neutral future.

Inspiring Curiosity in Research

We welcome those interested in contributing to our research endeavors to prepare their materials accordingly. Further details regarding the Energy and Technology Policy Group can be found on our website.