Job Description

Department of Molecular Life Sciences

PhD Position in Environmental Humanities - Exploring Negative Values of Nature in Wetlands 80 %

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Start of employment Ideally between November 2025 and February 2026, temporary
Our research in the group :Ethics and Philosophy of Biology is based on an empirical ethics research approach that combine empirical methods (interviews and surveys) with ethical argumentation. https://www.mls.uzh.ch/en/research/deplazes-zemp/research.html

Your responsibilities

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The successful candidate will work on an interdisciplinary PhD project at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, environmental ethics and the social sciences. The project explores how people respond to the negative aspects of nature-such as mosquitoes, flooding, beaver-related damage, and fog-in the Thurauen wetlands in Northern Switzerland.



The student conducts the following tasks:Literature analysis on different approaches to deal with negative values in the context of the Thurauen and similar wetlands in Switzerland. Approximately 30 semi-structured interviews with residents, visitors and different stakeholders in the Thurauen wetlands to explore their responses to negative values in wetlands. Transcription, coding and analysis of the interview data using qualitative methods. Writing of at least three research papers. Collaboration with other project members at the Universities of Lausanne and Fribourg to integrate findings into the broader academic discussion on environmental disvalues and environmental narratives. Working with project members at the WWF Switzerland to incorporate interview insights into the development of 'narrative tools' (e.g. a story collection) designed to foster constructive, non-polarised dialogue around negative aspects of nature

Your profile

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We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who brings the following qualifications and qualities:A completed Master's degree in biology/ ecology, geography, anthropology, political science, or other social sciences. As the project is based in a biology department, a basic understanding of biology or ecology is an advantage. Excellent command of German (spoken and written) is a requirement. Very good written and spoken English skills. Knowledge, interest, or experience in biodiversity conservation, science policy, or science-society relations in Central Europe. Familiarity with qualitative social science methods (e.g. interviews, thematic analysis) or a strong willingness to acquire these skills quickly. Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary, collaborative research environment.


What we offerA fully funded, four-year PhD position. A vibrant interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research network in the environmental humanities, environmental ethics and environmental sciences. The opportunity to contribute to a theoretically grounded project with direct practical relevance for biodiversity conservation. Access to excellent research infrastructure and support at the University of Zurich, with the possibility of a research visit at the University of Lausanne. Training within the Framework of the Life Science Zurich Graduate School.

www.mls.uzh.ch/en/research/deplazes-zemp.html

Information on your application

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Anna Deplazes Zemp

What we offer

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Work-Life Balance

Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing) Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ Free seasonal flu vaccinations Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

Policies of the UZH Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location

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Department of Molecular Life Sciences

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland

Further information

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Questions about the job

Anna Deplazes Zemp

Working at UZH

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The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!