PhD position in Professor Natasha Wunsch's research group 65% with European Studies

• 09 October 2026
• 65%
• Indefinite duration
• Fribourg

The research group focuses on European politics and challenges to democracy. Join a dynamic and research-oriented environment.

Tasks ##

• Develop and conduct a doctoral project on democracy.
• Assist in teaching one course per semester.
• Contribute to the activities of the research group.

Skills ##

• MA/MSc degree in political science required.
• Strong interest in democratic challenges in Europe.
• Mastery of social, quantitative and qualitative methods.

Particularity

The research group conducts studies on European politics with a particular focus on challenges to democracy using quantitative, qualitative and mixed approaches.

What we offer:

Integration into a young, dynamic and research-oriented department

Subject to the approval of the thesis proposal at the end of the first year, funding is guaranteed for up to five years

Flexible work organization alternating between on-site and teleworking

Additional funding available for participation in conferences and methods training

How to apply:

Please send your application electronically as a single pdf file to europe@unifr.ch. The file must contain a cover letter, a CV, a writing sample (e.g., master's thesis), copies of university transcripts (grades and diplomas), as well as the contact details of two people ready to serve as references.

Field of activity

Develop and conduct your own doctoral project, preferably in the research field of the chair (e.g., democracy and democratic backsliding, rise of populism and illiberalism in Europe)

Limited teaching assistance (one course per semester)

Support for organizational issues related to the Master's program in European Studies

Contribution to the activities of the research group

Requirements

Very good master's/MSc degree in political science (or near completion)

Strong interest in research on challenges to democracy in Europe

Solid training in social science methods (preferably both quantitative and qualitative)

Ability to work independently and in a team

Very good command of French and/or German as well as English

Language requirements

other: English

Start date:

• 01.02.2027 or date to be agreed

Information:

Prof. Natasha Wunsch

natasha.wunsch@unifr.ch

Deadline for receipt of applications:

09.11.2026

Submission address:

europe@unifr.ch