ELF Global Opportunity Alert!

Are you passionate about social justice, education, inequality, and qualitative research? The Department of Geography at the University of Zurich (UZH), Switzerland, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Position in Human Geography. The successful candidate will contribute to an important research project examining institutional racism, classism, and educational inequality in highly selective secondary schools in Switzerland.

About the PhD Project

The doctoral position is part of a Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)-funded research project titled:

"Institutional Conditions for Racially and/or Socio-Economically Minoritized Students at Highly Selective Secondary Schools in Switzerland."

The project seeks to understand how institutional racism and classism affect students from marginalized backgrounds and to identify effective practices for creating more equitable educational environments. The research is led by Dr. Sara Landolt at the University of Zurich's Department of Geography.

Position Details

• Institution: University of Zurich

• Department: Department of Geography (GIUZ)

• Location: Zurich

• Employment Rate: 80%

• Start Date: October 1, 2026, or by agreement

• Duration: Four years (initial three-year appointment with a possible one-year extension)

• Funding: Fully funded through the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project.

Research Responsibilities

The selected PhD candidate will:

• Conduct qualitative fieldwork with school leaders and students.

• Carry out interviews and participatory research activities.

• Analyze research data and contribute to academic publications.

• Present findings at workshops and international conferences.

• Complete a doctoral dissertation.

• Contribute to teaching and academic service activities within the department.

• Participate in the Zurich Graduate School in Geography and Earth System Science.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Hold (or be close to completing) a Master's degree in Geography, Sociology, Educational Studies, Youth Studies, Social Anthropology, Social Work, or a related field.

• Have experience in qualitative research methods.

• Demonstrate a strong interest in social justice, inequality, education, racism, and classism.

• Possess excellent communication and teamwork skills.

• Be fluent in both German and English.

• Have an interest in working with young people and conducting field-based research.

Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full funding and salary according to SNSF scales.

• Structured doctoral training and mentoring.

• Opportunities to attend international conferences and workshops.

• Access to a vibrant academic community at Switzerland's largest university.

• Professional development opportunities.

• A stimulating multicultural research environment in Zurich.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following documents in one PDF file:

• Motivation letter

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Contact details of two referees

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Academic writing sample (such as a Master's thesis)

• A 400–500-word essay explaining your interest in the research project and your approach to researching educational inequality, racism, classism, or research with young people.

Application Deadline

July 8, 2026

Shortlisted candidates are expected to be contacted in mid-July 2026. Applications may continue to be reviewed until the position is filled.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official University of Zurich recruitment portal:

Apply Here:
University of Zurich PhD Position in Human Geography Application Portal

For more information about the Department of Geography and the research project, applicants are encouraged to review the official vacancy announcement.

Why You Should Apply

This opportunity is ideal for aspiring researchers interested in education, social justice, youth studies, geography, sociology, and inequality studies. The position offers the chance to contribute to impactful research while earning a fully funded PhD at one of Europe's leading research universities. Through mentorship, international networking, and hands-on fieldwork, participants will develop the skills needed for successful academic and professional careers.

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Eureka Learners Foundation (ELF) is dedicated to connecting learners, professionals, researchers, and changemakers with educational, leadership, research, and global opportunities that foster personal growth, innovation, and community impact.

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