Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is an internationally networked aquatic research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). Eawag conducts research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goals of meeting direct human needs for water and maintaining the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.
The research department on Environmental Social Sciences (ESS) invites applications for a
PostDoc position on «Exchange platforms between science and politics»
The appointment is part of a project taking place under the ETH Board funded research initiative “Evidence-based dialogue on trade-offs in wicked societal problems (ENGAGE)“. The project aims to establish a dialogue and exchange platform at the national level that brings together scientists from different disciplines, public authorities, interest groups and associations, political parties and members of parliament. The focus is on topics that are complex, rapidly evolving, contain many uncertainties, and require coordinated cooperation at the international and cross-sectoral level (e.g. climate change, energy transition, biodiversity loss, invasive species, etc.). Dealing with these challenges also involves considering the inherent conflicts between different societal goals, needs and interests. The research program is embedded in a broad collaboration between different institutions of the ETH Domain.
Your profile
Applicants should have in-depth knowledge of different approaches and methods from the policy- and governance literatures. They should have a special interest in environmental and sustainability policy and be knowledgeable in the field of social institutions and science – policy/practice exchange. They must hold a PhD in political science, public policy, public administration, or a related social science discipline. Previous experience in stakeholder analysis or data collection from documents and interviews is an asset. Good knowledge of German and English is required, knowledge of another national language is an advantage.
The PostDoc researcher will analyze existing exchange and dialogue platforms between science and politics / practice (based on literature and interviews) and write scientific publications. The PostDoc will further contribute to the building of a new platform. The PostDoc will work in the «Engage Hub» at Eawag and be linked to the Department of Environmental Social Sciences at Eawag. The position is fixed to a period of two years and preferably starts in spring 2023.
Eawag is a modern employer and offers an excellent working environment where staff can contribute their strengths, experience and ways of thinking. We promote cultural and gender equality and are committed to staff diversity and inclusion. The compatibility of career and family is of central importance to us. For more information about Eawag and our work conditions please consult www.eawag.ch and www.eawag.ch/en/aboutus/working/employment.
Questions about the position can be directed to Prof. Manuel Fischer. Tel.: +41 58 765 56 76 (no applications).
If you are excited about working on this timely and challenging research topic within an international and interdisciplinary research team and with the excellent research facilities that Eawag has to offer, then we are looking forward to hearing from you.
The application deadline is 31 January 2023. The application (with CV, two letters of recommendation as well as two writing samples, e.g. dissertation chapter, conference article or published article) must be submitted via the Eawag job portal; the button below will redirect you to the application form.