Call for Applications "Postdoctoral Position at the Chair for Science Communication (Prof. Dr. Mike S. Schäfer)"

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 agreement

## We 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 apply

Please 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

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

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Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

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Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

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Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

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Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions

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Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

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International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

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Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

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Location

IKMZ - Department of Communication and Media Research

Andreasstrasse 15, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information

Questions about the job

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.

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