Doctoral Assistant

Institute of Philosophy, Ethics Research Institute Doctoral Assistant
50 %The Department of Philosophy at the University of Zurich is a lively and internationally oriented community of junior and senior researchers, with a particular strength in theories of normativity. Research at the Chair of General Ethics (Prof Dr Christoph Halbig) includes both metaethics and normative ethics, with a special focus on general value theory and the theory and ethics of the virtues.

Your responsibilities

Your responsibilities will be to develop and pursue a dissertation project on a topic to be agreed on with the chair holder in one of the following areas: ethics, value theory, theories of practical rationality; to offer instruction at the undergraduate level as both primary instructor and section leader; to support the chair holder’s research activities; and to participate in the academic life at both the chair and the department.

Your profile

You hold an outstanding Master’s degree in philosophy with a focus on metaethics, normative ethics, general value theory, and/or practical rationality. A live interest in the history of philosophy would be especially welcome. Fluency in both German and English is indispensable. Additional language skills, especially in French, Latin, and/or Ancient Greek, are desirable. You are willing and eager to actively participate in the chair’s and department’s activities.

What we offer

We offer you an extended period of concentrated philosophical research in a friendly and supportive environment. The city of Zurich is widely recognized as one of the world’s most livable places, with a wide range of world-class cultural amenities.

Place of work

Zollikerstrasse 117, 8008 Zurich

Start of employment

1 February, 2023, or as agreed. The position is initially limited to three years, with the possibility of extending first by two years and then by another three years, for a maximum of six years in total.
The deadline for submiting your application is 30 December, 2022. Please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• CV
• Outline of your envisioned dissertation project 2–3 pages)
• Writing sample in German or English (around 20 pages)
• Copies of your Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas including transcripts of your grades
• Names and contact information for two references

Second-round interviews will take place remotely in early to mid-January. We expect to make a decision shortly after.
We value diversity and inclusion and therefore especially encourage members of groups underrepresented in philosophy to apply.