[Expired] PhD Position in Social Policy, Digitalization, and AI Tools for Social Welfare Research

⛔ This position is no longer available.

University:

University of Zurich

Country:

Switzerland

Deadline:

May 31, 2025

Fields:

Political Science, Social Work, Data Science, Public Administration, SociologyThe Department of Political Science at the University of Zurich invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the research group of Professor Karsten Donnay, commencing September 1, 2025 (or later by agreement). This position is part of a collaborative research project with Dr. Rainer Gabriel at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), focusing on the non-take-up of social welfare benefits due to language and administrative barriers and the use of AI tools to improve accessibility.

Requirements

– Completed (or near completion) Master’s degree in political science, social science, or social work (candidates from social work should demonstrate data science proficiency)– Strong motivation to use digital tools for addressing real-world social challenges– Interest in applied social research related to social policy, inequality, digitalization, and public administration– Quantitative research and data science skills, including programming (Python), data analysis (R or Python), and experience with experimental research– Familiarity with or interest in AI tools, natural language processing, or plain language communication is advantageous– Understanding of public administrations, welfare states, and the issue of non-take-up of social benefits– Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams– Strong command of both German and English– Creativity, open-mindedness, and curiosityThe successful candidate will contribute to adapting and deploying an AI-based translation tool, support real-world implementation and field experiments, participate in academic and public dissemination, and coordinate with practice partners. The position is fully funded for three years, with the possibility of extension, and offers a competitive annual salary (approx. 57,084 CHF at 80% employment).

Application Process

Upload your letter of interest, CV, writing sample (e.g., MA thesis), university transcripts, and contact details for two referees at: www.ipz.uzh.ch/de/ueber-uns/offene-stellen/2025-PhD-Donnay.htmlApplication Deadline: May 31, 2025For further inquiries, contact Professor Karsten Donnay at donnay@ipz.uzh.ch.The University of Zurich encourages applications from women and other traditionally underrepresented groups.Get the latest openings in your field and preferred country—straight to your email inbox. Sign up now for 14 days free: https://phdfinder.com/register

Also See

• PhD Research Fellowship in the Sociology of Artificial Intelligence
• PhD Position in Political Science: Socio-Demographic Cues and Ideological Perception
• PhD Position in Epidemiology and Swine Welfare at the University of Guelph
• PhD Position in Hydrogen Uptake and Diffusion in Metal Barriers for Hydrogen Gas Transport Pipes
• PhD Researcher Position – Invisible Barriers to Equal Opportunities in Education