The newly founded Institute for Slavic and Eastern European Studies at the University of Zurich invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in contemporary history, with a focus on Eastern Europe. The position, affiliated with the Professorship for Modern Eastern European Studies, is initially offered for 12 months at 60–80% and may be extended for up to 4–5 years, contingent on securing external funding.
The successful candidate will pursue their own research and contribute to the development of a major research proposal in economic and social history. The proposed research project examines the dynamics of economic systems, including energy and infrastructure, in late-twentieth-century Eastern Europe.
Duties and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Pursue independent research while contributing to the preparation of a major research proposal (ERC/SNSF level) in close cooperation with the Principal Investigator;
- Support the development of the project’s conceptual framework, including literature reviews and research design;
- Take an active role in organizing and contributing to project meetings and workshops.
Your profile
Applicants should possess:
- A completed PhD in economic history, history, political economy, or a related field;
- Expertise or strong interest in Eastern European history, ideally including energy, infrastructure, or economic systems;
- Interest in interdisciplinary research across history and political economy;
- Excellent command of English (spoken and written);
- Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative work.
Familiarity with archival research in Eastern Europe, relevant language skills (e.g., Russian or other Eastern European languages), and experience in historical data analysis are assets.
What we offer
The position offers excellent research conditions, opportunities for career development and longer-term academic progression (subject to funding), and active integration into an internationally connected, interdisciplinary research network.
Place of work
Institute for Slavic and Eastern European Studies, University of Zurich, Plattenstrasse 43, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
Start of employment
1 July 2026 or by arrangement
Application
Deadline: 15 May 2026
Required documents (as a single PDF): letter of motivation, CV, list of publications, writing sample (two texts)
Please fill in your application online.
Further information
For project-related questions: Prof. Dr. Jeronim Perović
For formal inquiries: Dr. Sonja Ulrich (General Manager)
