Resilience & Crisis Management Researcher / Resilience & Crisis Management Researcheress

Introduction

The Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich is a center of competence for Swiss and international security policy. It offers security policy expertise in research, teaching, and consultancy.

Project Background

The Think Tank of the CSS serves as a vital link between researchers and practitioners in the field of security policy, acting as a point of contact and reference for the wider public.

The Resilience and Crisis Management Team, part of the CSS Think Tank, conducts research and provides policy consulting across various fields related to risks and strategies to prevent, prepare for, or respond to disasters and emergencies. The focus areas include:

• Risks: Changes in the risk landscape, methods for risk assessments, natural hazards.
• Civil Protection and Crisis Management: Including CBRN, processes and structures, technological adaptations, and innovative approaches.
• Societal and Socio-Technical Resilience: Topics such as individual disaster preparedness and critical infrastructure issues.

Job Description

As a researcher in the Resilience and Crisis Management Team, you will delve into the key issue areas outlined and explore related topics. Depending on your expertise and interests, you will develop specialized knowledge and insights to assist Swiss authorities in tackling specific challenges. This role includes proactive engagement with various stakeholders, providing on-demand comprehensive policy advice, and presenting your expertise clearly and concisely.

You will publish your findings in policy-relevant publications and disseminate your knowledge through dialogue with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders. Ideally, you would be able to join as soon as possible.

Qualifications

Applicants should possess a minimum of a MA/MSc degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Political Science, Risk Analysis, Resilience, Crisis and Disaster Management, Security Studies, Public Policy, or Environmental Sciences). Recent MA graduates are especially encouraged to apply. We are looking for researchers with experience and/or interest in one or more of the following areas:

• Natural hazards and disaster risk reduction;
• Socio-technical resilience;
• Anticipation and risk analysis methods, as well as risk communication.

An independent, well-organized working style, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate within an international team are essential.

As the CSS operates in a multilingual environment, proficiency in English is required. Knowledge of a Swiss national language, or a willingness to learn German on the job, is an asset. Relevant work experience in international organizations, think tanks, or government agencies is advantageous, as is familiarity with the Swiss political landscape.

What We Offer

We provide an opportunity to develop and enhance your research skills in resilience and crisis management topics within a university-based think tank focused on security and peace issues.

The appointment is for two years, with the possibility of extension pending funding and mutual agreement. Our workplace is located in the heart of Zurich, offering attractive working conditions. Additional training and the chance to conduct applied research, publish results in various formats, and support peace mediation processes are central components of our personnel policy.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents:

• CV
• Letter of interest explaining the skills and motivation you would bring to the position
• One to two single-authored writing samples (e.g., an academic article, policy brief, or thesis chapter – drafts are acceptable)
• Two references to be approached (in case you are invited to an interview)
• A copy of your master’s degree and any job references

The application deadline is 31 October 2026.

For further information about us, please visit our website.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.