University of Zurich 
Zurich, Switzerland Sintesi dell’opportunità
The University of Zurich invites applications for a two-year PhD position in Philosophy within the SNSF-funded CREST-AI project at the Digital Society Initiative. Starting November 1, 2026, or by agreement, this part-time role (80% FTE) focuses on Neo-Kantian conceptions of rational autonomy to address epistemic asymmetry in AI-human collaboration. Candidates must hold an excellent MA in Philosophy, preferably with Kantian emphasis. Responsibilities include conducting research, writing a dissertation, and supporting project management. Applicants should submit a CV, motivation letter, academic record, references, and a writing sample via the UZH job portal. The position remains open until filled. Successful candidates will contribute to developing expert-layperson simplification AI while benefiting from flexible working models, childcare support, and various employee discounts.
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Descrizione del progetto
Digital Society Initiative
PhD Student in Philosophy in SNSF-Project CREST-AI 80 %
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.
Information on your application
Please submit your application at your earliest convenience; the position will remain open until filled. Your application should include: your CV, motivation letter (specify your research interests and how they relate to the topic of the research project), academic record (include additional education or coursework if applicable), contact information of two references and a writing sample (a paper or chapter from your Master's thesis).
What we offer
Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more.
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
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
Location
Digital Society Initiative
Rämistrasse 69, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Dr. Reto Gubelmann
PI
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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!
Please apply via our job portal jobs.uzh.ch.
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
