Research and Teaching Assistant / Research and Teaching Assistant

Introduction

The newly established Chair of Global Security, held by Prof. Annette Idler, is part of the Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (D-GESS) at ETH Zurich. The Chair focuses on examining global security, particularly in relation to armed conflicts, the global illicit economy, transitions from war to peace, and the interconnections between local conflict dynamics and global shifts in order and power. Its mixed-methods research programme integrates macro-level theory with detailed, contextualised fieldwork across various world regions, combining qualitative, quantitative, and computational approaches. This programme bridges the social sciences with complexity science and other disciplines. The Chair’s international research group closely collaborates with international organizations, governments, and civil society. From 2029, Prof. Idler will also assume the Directorship of the Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich.

Job Description

Prof. Annette Idler is seeking to appoint a research and teaching assistant (100%) as soon as possible or by agreement. In this role, you will:

• Prepare the Chair’s courses each semester.
• Manage the online learning environment for the Chair’s courses and assist with grading.
• Represent the Chair on the departmental Teaching Committee, if requested.
• Support Prof. Idler with research for teaching and research projects, including literature and background research, data collection and management, editorial support, and preparing presentations.
• Maintain the Chair’s teaching records.

Your Profile

You should hold a Master’s degree in Political Science, International Relations, or a related discipline, with specialist knowledge of international politics and global security, and be familiar with the relevant research institutes and publication outlets. An excellent command of written and spoken English is required; knowledge of German is an advantage. Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, a high degree of independence, and very good IT skills are essential.

This position serves as an ideal entry point following the completion of a university degree and is fixed-term for approximately two years. You can expect varied and challenging work in a stimulating and motivating environment at a world-leading university. You will work closely with Prof. Idler, gain insight into teaching and research at a newly established chair at ETH Zurich, and engage with a wide range of global security issues. There is also the potential to develop a small independent research project of your own, such as a PhD proposal.

We Offer

Join ETH Zurich, where your career development is supported, and you can actively contribute to positive changes in society. You can look forward to numerous benefits, such as:

• Public transportation subscriptions and car-sharing options.
• A broad range of sports activities offered by ASVZ.
• Childcare services and attractive pension benefits.

Interested?

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please ensure your application includes the following documents:

• Cover letter
• CV
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• Up to two writing samples (if available)

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For more information about the Chair of Global Security, please visit our website. The application deadline is November 15, 2026.