Doctoral student

We offer a 5-year research position starting from September 2026 (or by mutual agreement) at the research group led by Prof. Lena Schaffer. The position offers the opportunity to pursue a doctoral dissertation in political science within a vibrant research and teaching environment. We offer flexible working hours and opportunities for interdisciplinary exchange and further training within the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences (GSL) at the University of Lucerne.

• Writing a doctoral dissertation in political science with possible specializations including climate politics, the politics of migration and/or political behavior
• Teaching undergraduate-level courses (2 SWS)
• Supervising seminar papers and contributing to examinations
• Supporting the professorship in research activities and third-party funding acquisition
• Assisting with the organization of workshops, and other academic events
• Participating in academic self-governance

• an MA degree in political science / political economy / economics or a related discipline
• a keen interest in international or comparative politics, IPE/CPE and/or political behavior
• knowledge of quantitative methods, and ideally experience with data analysis
• an ability to work independently as well as within a team
• a strong command of English and – preferably – a good working knowledge of German