Assistant/Ph.D. Position (80%)

Introduction

UNIL is a leading international teaching and research institution, with over 5,000 employees and 17,000 students split between its Dorigny campus, CHUV and Epalinges. As an employer, UNIL encourages excellence, individual recognition and responsibility.

Presentation

At the Swiss Graduate School of Public Administration (IDHEAP) of the University of Lausanne, an assistant/Ph.D. position (80%) is available, starting on 1 February 2026, or on a mutually agreed date.
The position is part of the Research Unit “Public Law and Regulation” led by Prof. Sophie Weerts. Candidates for this role are expected to pursue their Ph.D. in public administration, with a focus on public law and regulation issues related to the digital society.

Job information

Expected start date in position : 1st february 2026 / to be agreed

Contract length : 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years

Activity rate : 80%

Workplace : IDHEAP, University of Lausanne

Annual salary (Assistant diplômé) :

Your responsibilities

• Perform research work for Ph.D. thesis (40%)
• Collaborate in administrative activities of the research unit (20%)
• Participation in consulting activities of the research unit (20%)

Your qualifications

Applicants should have the equivalent of a master’s degree in law, Public Administration, Political Sciences, or European Studies, with a strong interest in the digital society:

• Excellent analytical skills;
• Strong interest in social media issues, and notably deepfakes
• Excellent knowledge of legal principles in constitutional law and administrative law;
• Strong interest in social science methods;
• Curious, creative, reliable, persistent, organised and precise;
• Proficient in both French and English, with fluency in written and spoken language. Proficiency in German is an asset.

What the position offers you

We offer a nice working place in a multicultural, diverse and dynamic academic environment. Opportunities for professional training, a lot of activities and other benefits to discover.

Contact for further information

Further information may be obtained from Prof. Sophie Weerts ( )

Your application

Please, send your full application in Word or PDF including CV, copies of certificates, motivation letter and one academic work) should be sent no later than 1.12.2026 by e-mail.
Only applications through this website will be taken into account.We thank you for your understanding.

Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

Additional information

UNIL is committed to:
• equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
• ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
• offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
• supporting early career researchers.