Postdoctoral Researcher in Quantitative Socio-Spatial Analysis, Zürich (Kreis 11)

This position is in the research group“Spatial Development and Urban Policy SPUR” led by Prof. Dr. David Kaufmann, which focuses on sustainable, democratic and just urban development. We are an interdisciplinary research group at the Institute for Spatial and Landscape Development, bringing together perspectives from spatial planning, urban studies, social sciences, and data science.

Project background We are searching for a postdoctoral researcher who conducts, leads, and acquires applied research projects on quantitative socio-spatial analysis. The core task is to develop and implement methods, tools and platforms for analyzing, monitoring and visualizing socio-spatial phenomena such as segregation, gentrification, displacement, housing affordability and poverty, with a focus on Switzerland. This includes collecting, analyzing and visualizing spatial registry data for research, applied projects, teaching and public communication. More specifically, the researcher would develop and conduct socio-spatial monitorings of Switzerland as well as to conduct applied research projects with public authorities.

Job description The position entails to collaborate across disciplines and to integrate quantitative spatial analysis into different research projects. The researcher's task would also be to develop a website presenting socio-spatial outcomes, indices, and maps for the interested public to engage with, as well as providing open access, downloadable data. The researcher is expected to engage with public authorities, research institutions, NGOs and the public to further develop the applied research portfolio of the SPUR research group, with the longer-term goal of establishing a sub-unit on applied socio-spatial analysis.

Profile

A PhD degree (or near completion of) in spatial or urban analytics, quantitative or computational social science or geography, public economics or similar disciplines

Strong knowledge and skills in data science, spatial analytics and spatial data visualization, including experience in handling large-scale registry datasets. Experience in working with linked Swiss registry datasets is an asset

Good knowledge and interest in Swiss spatial planning and housing policy, and a curiosity for socio-spatial phenomena and urban issues (e.g., segregation or gentrification)

Interest in integrating spatial data analysis into interdisciplinary and mixed-methods research projects

Good knowledge of the relevant academic literature and interest in bringing applied socio-spatial research into academic discourse and academic publications

Interest in bringing socio-spatial analysis into teaching and public discourse

Experience in project management and organizational development. Knowledge of website programming is an asset

Very good command of written and spoken English and German, good command of French is an asset

We offer A postdoctoral researcher position initially limited to 2 years, but it can be extended up to 6 years. The intended starting date is summer 2026.

Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society

You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits

We value diversity and sustainability 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. Sustainability is a core value for us– we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

About ETH Zürich ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing 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.

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