University of Zurich 
Zurich, Switzerland Offer Summary
The University of Zurich invites applications for a postdoctoral position within the SNSF-funded project 'Mapping Mental Health in Municipalities.' Located in Zurich, Switzerland, this part-time role (60-80% FTE) begins on February 1, 2027, or by agreement. The two-year contract may be extended for up to two additional years. The research aims to refine sampling strategies to reach underrepresented populations and generate actionable mental health evidence for municipalities in Canton Zurich. Responsibilities include developing survey instruments, conducting quantitative analyses, leading manuscript preparation, and engaging with local stakeholders. Candidates require a PhD in epidemiology, public health, psychology, or related fields, with strong methodological skills and experience in large-scale population data. Proficiency in English is required, along with good German knowledge for municipal collaboration. Applications are due by November 30, 2026.
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Project Description
Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI) and the Population Research Center (PRC)
Postdoc Position in SNSF-funded Project “Mapping Mental Health in Municipalities” 60 - 80 %
Start of employment 1 February 2027, or upon agreement, temporary
The Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI) and the Population Research Center (PRC) at the University of Zurich are leading institutions in public health and population-based research. We invite applications for a postdoctoral position (60-80%) within the SNSF-funded project “Mapping Mental Health in Municipalities: Comparing Random Sampling and Setting-Based Approaches to Generate Inclusive Data and Actionable Evidence”. The position is initially offered for two years with the possibility of an extension for up to an additional two years.
This research project has two main objectives: (1) to test and refine three different sampling and recruitment strategies, including setting-based and participatory approaches, to better reach underrepresented and hard-to-reach populations; and (2) to generate actionable municipality-level evidence on mental health and wellbeing in the Canton of Zurich. Using large-scale population surveys across diverse municipalities, the project combines methodological innovation with applied public health research and aims to provide evidence that is both scientifically rigorous and directly relevant for municipalities and policymakers.
You will join an interdisciplinary team spanning epidemiology, psychology, and political science, combining scientific research with community engagement and project implementation.
Population Research Center
PRC Research Projects
Your responsibilities
The postdoctoral researcher will work closely with the project investigators and contribute to all phases of the study. Responsibilities include:
- Contribute to the development and implementation of survey instruments, study materials, and data collection procedures
- Develop project-related research questions and the statistical analysis plan, and conduct quantitative analyses
- Contribute to the implementation of municipality-based and setting-based approaches, including the evaluation of implementation processes and experiences
- Lead the preparation of scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and present findings at nation-al and international conferences
- Engage with local stakeholders, including public authorities, policymakers, and community organiza-tions, and contribute to communication, knowledge translation, and dissemination
Your profile
- PhD in epidemiology, public health, psychology, sociology, political science, statistics, or related disci-pline
- Strong methodological and analytical skills, ideally with experience in survey research and quantitative data analysis
- Experience in working with large-scale population data and applying advanced statistical methods
- Track record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Interest in mental health research, population health, health inequalities, and the Swiss health system and its regional context
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary team
- Excellent written and spoken English; good knowledge of German for collaboration with municipalities and local stakeholders
Information on your application
To apply, please submit your cover letter, CV, and relevant employment certificates by 30 November 2026.
What we offer
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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
Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI) and the Population Research Center (PRC)
Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Anja Frei
Senior researcher
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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