PhD Student in Philosophy in SNSF-Project CREST-AI — Universität Zürich
- Location
- Zürich
- Contract
- Part-time, Full-time
- Posted
- 5 days ago
Full description
Digital Society Initiative
Start of employment November 1, 2026 or by agreement, temporary
We invite you to apply for a two-year funded PhD position in philosophy whose research output will be directly relevant to building the next generation of expert-layperson simplification AI. As a PhD student, you will contribute to the research project «Countering Epistemic, Semantic and Technological Asymmetry in AI-Human Collaboration Focusing on Expert-Layperson Simplification (CREST-AI)» funded by the SNSF at the University of Zurich's Digital Society Initiative (DSI) under the supervision of Dr. Reto Gubelmann. The main philosophical reference point will be Neo-Kantian conceptions of rational autonomy, which will be brought to bear on the epistemically challenging situation of being on the receiving end of expert-layperson simplification settings, directly shaping the technology developed in the project. The Digital Society Initiative (DSI) aims to shape the digital transformation of science and society and thus to strengthen Zurich as a center of research and business.
Your responsibilities
- Conducting research in the Context of WP 1 of Project CREST-AI
- Writing a doctoral dissertation
- Participating in scientific conferences and public outreach activities
- Supporting the PI in managing the project, organizing conferences and preparation of research proposals to national and international funding agencies
Your profile
Excellent MA in Philosophy, preferably with an emphasis on Kantian thought.
What we offer
Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more: https://www.uzh.ch/de/explore/work.html.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
- Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
- Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
More Learning and Development
- Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
- Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
- Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
- Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
- Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
- Free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
- Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
- Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
Conditions of Employment
- Policies of the UZH
- Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
- Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
- Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
- Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
Questions about this listing
What salary does Universität Zürich offer for this role?
The original listing does not state a salary. Our estimate for this role and sector in Zürich is CHF 91'500 - 128'000 gross per year — an estimate, not a figure communicated by Universität Zürich. The calculator on this site converts a gross salary into your actual net take-home once cross-border tax and social contributions are applied.
Is this a full-time role, and what type of contract does Universität Zürich offer?
This listing is a part-time and full-time position. The contract type shown here comes directly from the employer's original posting; always confirm exact hours, notice period and probation length with Universität Zürich during the application process, since these details can vary by role even within the same contract category.
Do I need a cross-border work permit for a role in Zürich?
EU/EFTA citizens living in an EU/EFTA state can apply for a G permit and can work anywhere in Switzerland: border zones no longer apply to them, and they must return home at least once a week. The Swiss employer files the request with Canton Zürich's migration office after the contract is signed. Processing times vary by canton, so confirm the specifics with Zürich's cantonal migration office or with HR during the application.
How do I apply for this position at Universität Zürich?
Use the "Apply now" button on this page — it links directly to Universität Zürich's original listing at jobs.uzh.ch, so your application goes straight to the employer's own applicant-tracking system. Frontaliere Ticino does not collect or forward applications itself.
