The Professorship of International Relations and Data Science is currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a two-year position (100%). 

The position is based at ETH Zurich and is supervised by Prof. Livia Schubiger.

The candidate will work with the IRDS group on projects that leverage NLP, causal inference, and machine learning to explore norms related to gender-based and other forms of violence, as well as avenues to reduce such violence.

The selected candidate will work in the group of Professor Livia Schubiger at ETHZ. The candidate will be expected to conduct research for projects in the group and to pursue their own research agenda. 

• For information about the IRDS group, please visit the IRDS website 
• For information about Livia Schubiger's research profile, please visit her personal webpage
• The salary conditions can be found here

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who can work independently as well as in a team of international scientists. The candidate should have excellent academic qualifications and strong coding and writing skills, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced interdisciplinary environment. The start date is negotiable. The position is based in Zurich, Switzerland.

The successful candidate must have:

• A doctoral degree in a social science discipline (e.g., political science, economics) with specialization in causal inference or data science/computational social science; or a degree in computer science (or related discipline) plus a strong interest in social science questions
• Significant coding skills (Python and/or R for those from a social sciences background) and experience with NLP methods (or a strong motivation to acquire such skills independently)
• Interest in causal machine learning, and other advanced techniques for causal inference
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent English communication skills
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team
• Ability to work effectively in collaborative settings

We offer:

• Opportunities for co-authorship of scientific publications
• Numerous benefits and flexible, family-friendly working conditions
• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• Equal Opportunities and Diversity

In line with our values, 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 our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your online application by May 15, 2025 with the following documents:

• CV
• Letter of motivation
• Writing sample (e.g., working paper)
• Copy of certificates / diplomas 
• 2 Letters of recommendation, emailed *from referees* directly to [email protected] 

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services, as well as incomplete applications, will not be considered. Only recommendation letters are to be submitted via email. 

Questions regarding the project should be directed to Professor Dr Livia Schubiger: [email protected] (no recommendation letters or applications).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.