PhD Researcher AI Lab; m​/w​/d

As part of a strategic collaboration between the University of St. Gallen (HSG) and Zurich Insurance, a joint AI Research Lab is being established. The lab aims to advance research at the intersection of business model innovation in the age of gen AI and to develop innovative solutions that drive the digital transformation of the insurance sector.

To strengthen the university's research contribution to this initiative, we are seeking a PhD Researcher to join the Zurich AI Lab. This position offers an excellent opportunity to pursue original research at the intersection of AI, business, and insurance, contribute to high-impact academic publications, and actively collaborate within an interdisciplinary and industry-connected research environment. International applications are especially welcomed.

• Conduct independent and collaborative research in the field of business model innovation in the age of gen AI
• Contribute to the development and implementation of research projects within the AI Research Center
• Publish results in leading scientific journals and present findings at international conferences
• Publish results in other outlets (e.g., leading newspapers) and disseminate results to the broader public
• Help to position the lab as a thought leader in AI and business innovation in the insurance industry
• Collaborate with academic peers, supervisors, and industry partners within the Lab's joint research framework
• Participate in seminars, workshops, and interdisciplinary activities of the research center

• Completed university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Business Administration, Computer Science, Data science, Artificial Intelligence, Business Informatics, or a related field, with excellent academic results
• Strong interest in research at the intersection of AI, business innovation, and strategy
• 2–3 years of professional experience in consulting or a comparable analytical or strategic environment is an advantage
• Interest or background in the insurance or financial services industry is desirable
• Exceptional analytical and conceptual abilities, combined with an enthusiasm for scientific research; initial research experience (e.g., through a master's thesis) is beneficial
• Strong sense of responsibility, organizational talent, initiative, and flexibility
• Very good proficiency in both German and English (spoken and written)
• Familiarity with programming languages and frameworks such as Python, PyTorch, or Tensor Flow is an advantage
• Fulfillment of the formal admission requirements for doctoral studies at the University of St. Gallen (minimum GPA of 5.0 [Switzerland] or 2.0 [Germany], and eligibility for PhD admission at the home university)