IKMZ - Department of Communication and Media Research
Call for Applications "Postdoctoral Position at the Chair for Science Communication (Prof. Dr. Mike S. Schäfer)" 80 %
Start of employment approximately in 01.02.2027 or upon agreementWe are looking for an excellent scholar in communication science or a closely related discipline who combines a strong empirical social-science profile with expertise or a clear research interest in science communication and/or climate change communication. Research at the Chair for Science Communication examines how science- and technology-related issues are publicly communicated and perceived, including topics such as climate change, artificial intelligence, health, and emerging technologies, as well as the role of digital platforms, political actors, scientists, and other stakeholders.
About the position
- 3-year postdoctoral position (80%, paid according to the cantonal salary scheme)
- Can potentially be extended for an additional 3 years
- Workplace is Zurich
Your responsibilities
- Conduct excellent research in science communication and/or climate change communication
- Contribute to team research projects and develop your own research agenda
- Contribute to the mentoring of junior colleagues and the collaborative development of the team
- Contribute to ongoing and future empirical projects, including survey-based research
- Publish in leading academic journals and present research at international conferences
- Teach one class per semester in IKMZ's BA/MA programs and supervise BA/MA theses
- Take on a limited amount of organizational and administrative responsibilities
Your profile
- Doctoral degree in communication science or a closely related discipline
- Excellent track record of conceptually guided, rigorous empirical research
- A research profile in science communication, climate change communication, or a closely related area
- Strong methodological expertise; experience with survey research would be particularly welcome
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an ambitious research environment
- Experience in mentoring, project coordination, or other forms of academic leadership would be an asset
- Proficiency in English; knowledge of German would be helpful
Information on your application
How to applyPlease send the following documents using the “Apply now” button below until 30.10.2026:
- Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)
- CV including copies of degrees and relevant transcripts and a list of scientific publications
- Full texts of up to 3 sample publications, full text of PhD thesis, if available
Deadline for applications is 30.10.2026. The position starts approximately in 01.02.2027 or upon agreement .
What we offer
Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more: https://www.uzh.ch/de/explore/work.html.
What we offer
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Further information
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Mike S. Schäfer Professor of Science Communication
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html
The University of Zurich is the largest research university in Switzerland.
IKMZ has been recognized as one of the leading communication departments worldwide.
UZH and IKMZ are committed to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and equality
across all aspects of academia. We encourage applications from
underrepresented groups to ensure a vibrant and equitable academic community.
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
More → https://www.uzh.ch/en/explore/work.html
The University of Zurich is the largest research university in Switzerland.
IKMZ has been recognized as one of the leading communication departments worldwide.
UZH and IKMZ are committed to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and equality
across all aspects of academia. We encourage applications from
underrepresented groups to ensure a vibrant and equitable academic community.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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