PhD position in political economy of climate change adaptation policies

PhD position in political economy of climate change adaptation policies

ETH Zurich’s Energy and Technology Policy Group (EPG) is seeking a PhD candidate to analyze the design of climate change adaptation policies. This PhD position is part of the National Center of Competence in Research:
Climate Extremes and Society – Strengthening Resilience (NCCR CLIM+), which involves multiple investigators from other labs at ETH Zurich as well as other Swiss universities and institutions.

• The PhD project will analyze the designs of policies targeting adaptation and resilience to climate change in Switzerland and beyond.
• It will also analyze how these policies come about (policy process), including the role of extreme events.
• To this end, the doctoral candidate will leverage public policy theories and combine several qualitative and quantitative empirical methods.
• The candidate will be primarily supervised by Prof. Schmidt and collaborate with PIs and fellow PhD students within the NCCR CLIM+.
• The doctorate will be conducted within the Einstein School’s doctoral program and is expected to be completed within 3‑4 years.
• The position is for up to four years. The salary is in accordance with the Swiss National Science Foundation PhD regulation, which funds the NCCR.

• Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in political science, public policy, or a related social science. Interdisciplinary candidates are welcome.
• Applicants must be highly proficient in English and in French and/or German. A good understanding of the Swiss political system is a valuable asset.
• Applicants should be dedicated to scientifically rigorous work that is relevant to decision makers in the public and private sectors. Working style team‑oriented, and strong communication skills.

• Entrepreneurial research atmosphere within an interdisciplinary project at a leading research university.
• Opportunity to contribute to CLIM+ consortium research discussions and co‑advise master’s students.
• Collaborations with national and international academic and policy institutions (e.g., Stanford, MIT, Princeton, the UN).
• Central location in Zurich.
• Exact starting date negotiable; preferred start in fall 2026.

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Our commitment to diversity extends across all aspects of our organization and we maintain a climate‑neutral future.