Postdoctoral Researcher (12 months, with extension option) 60 - 80 %
Start of employment 01.07.2026, temporaryThe newly founded Institute for Slavic and Eastern European Studies at the University of Zurich invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in contemporary history, with a focus on Eastern Europe. The position, affiliated with the Professorship for Modern Eastern European Studies, is initially offered for 12 months at 60–80% and may be extended for up to 4–5 years, contingent on securing external funding.
The successful candidate will pursue their own research and contribute to the development of a major research proposal in economic and social history. The proposed research project examines the dynamics of economic systems, including energy and infrastructure, in late-twentieth-century Eastern Europe.
The position offers excellent research conditions, opportunities for career development and longer-term academic progression (subject to funding), and active integration into an internationally connected, interdisciplinary research network.
Your responsibilities
- Pursue independent research while contributing to the preparation of a major research proposal (ERC/SNSF level) in close cooperation with the Principal Investigator;
- Support the development of the project's conceptual framework, including literature reviews and research design;
- Take an active role in organizing and contributing to project meetings and workshops.
Your profile
- A completed PhD in economic history, history, political economy, or a related field;
- Expertise or strong interest in Eastern European history, ideally including energy, infrastructure, or economic systems;
- Interest in interdisciplinary research across history and political economy;
- Excellent command of English (spoken and written);
- Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative work.
Information on your application
Deadline: 15 May 2026Required documents (as a single PDF): letter of motivation, CV, list of publications, writing sample (two texts)
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Questions about the job
Jeronim Perović Professor for Modern Eastern European StudiesQuestions about the application procedure
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