The Professorship for the History of the Modern World at D-GESS (Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences), ETH Zurich, invites applications for a fully funded, full-time, 4-year PhD position in Global History, starting 1 July 2025 (or at the earliest convenience of the successful candidate). 

This position is part of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) research project.
Engineering Empires from the Margins: Global Techno-Colonialism and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, c. 1860–1980, led by Prof. Dr. Harald Fischer-Tiné and coordinated by Dr. Monique Ligtenberg. 

While a postdoctoral researcher will explore the broader global entanglements of Swiss engineering, the PhD project, From Colonial Complicity to Intercultural Sensitivity? The Geologists Albert (1849–1937) and Arnold Heim (1872–1965), will focus on the (post)colonial backdrop and disciplinary shifts within geology, traced through the lives and work of ETH professor Albert Heim and his son, petroleum geologist Arnold Heim. 

As a PhD researcher, you will: 

• Present your research at national and international academic conferences. 

• Complete and defend a PhD thesis. 

• Write and submit two peer-reviewed scholarly articles or book chapters during the term of the project. 

• Contribute to public history initiatives (blog posts, establishment of a database,..) associated with the Engineering Empire project.  

• Collaborate closely with Prof. Fischer-Tiné and the team of doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in the History of the Modern World group and occasionally take over small tasks for the professorship (help organizing events, mark exams etc.). 

• Attain at least four credits through course work at ETH during the first two years of the PhD as per the department’s regulations, and twelve credits in total throughout the four years. 

While flexible work arrangements (including partial remote work) are possible, regular presence at the ETH Zurich office (2–3 days per week) is expected. 

We are looking for a highly motivated and curious early-career researcher who meets the following criteria: 

• A completed MA or MPhil in History or a related discipline by the start of the contract. 

• Proven expertise in one or more of the following fields: 

• Global History (19th–20th century) 

• History of science and/or knowledge 

• Environmental history 

• Commodity history 

• Area studies 

• Other relevant subfields 

• Advanced proficiency in English (spoken and written)

• Ability to read and analyze archival materials in German

• Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the project (e.g., Bahasa Indonesia, Spanish) is a strong asset

We are committed to promoting diversity and encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups in academia. 

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits such as:

• Funding for research travel to relevant archives in Switzerland, Indonesia, the USA, and the Netherlands

• Coverage of conference and workshop travel expenses

• A stimulating, supportive, and international research environment

• Access to ETH Zurich’s outstanding infrastructure and academic networks

• A competitive salary in accordance with ETH Zurich regulations

• Excellent work-life balance at one of the world’s top research universities, located in the heart of Europe

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Please submit your application in English via the ETH online application portal. Applications sent by email or post will not be considered. 

Your application should include: 

• A motivation letter 

• A detailed curriculum vitae 

• Copies of academic transcripts and qualifications 

• A sample of academic writing (e.g., a chapter from your MA/MPhil thesis or a published article) 

• A letter of reference from a scholar familiar with your academic work 

Application deadline: 15 May 2025 

For administrative questions, please contact: 
[email protected] 

For project-related inquiries, contact: 
[email protected] 

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.