The University of Zurich, a leading hub for cutting-edge research, offers a range of fully funded PhD positions across diverse fields, from chemistry and biology to political science and public governance. These opportunities provide aspiring researchers with competitive salaries, access to world-class infrastructure, and mentorship within vibrant academic communities. Explore the details below and apply to join this dynamic research environment. You can also check 15 Fully Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities at University of Bergen
Benefits
The following PhD positions are offered by the University of Zurich, Switzerland, known for its excellent research conditions and vibrant academic community. Benefits include:
- Competitive salaries (~50,000–57,927 CHF/year, per SNSF or cantonal guidelines).
- Enrollment in structured PhD programs with advanced training.
- Opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation.
- Supportive, interdisciplinary research environments with mentorship.
Interested in More PhD Positions? Follow links below
How to Apply
Submit a single PDF file via the University of Zurich’s job portal (links below), including a motivation letter, CV with 2–3 referee contacts, academic transcripts, and, if available, a writing sample (e.g., Master’s thesis). Applications are evaluated based on academic excellence and interviews may be conducted in person or via video call.
All Available Positions (Please click on specific project to view details)
PhD in Organic Chemistry feat. Photo- & Redox Chemistry, Protacs
Join a dynamic research group at the University of Zurich’s Department of Chemistry to develop organic dyes into photocages for drug delivery using tissue-penetrating light. This interdisciplinary project combines organic chemistry, photochemistry, and biology to advance drug delivery and personalized therapies. The position is fully funded for four years by the SNSF Starting Grant.
Checkout: 51 Fully Funded Marie Curie PhD Scholarships in Gen-Q Quantum Science Programme
Eligibility
- First-class Master’s degree in chemistry or organic chemistry (awarded before contract start)
- Strong background in organic synthesis, redox chemistry, and physical organic chemistry
- Proficiency in inert atmosphere techniques (glovebox, vacuum line, Schlenk techniques) and cyclic voltammetry
- Experience in biology (cell viability studies, flow cytometry, bioimaging, western blotting) or photochemistry is a plus
- Academic awards at university or national level
- Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (spoken and written)
Deadline: 15 September 2025
Predicting and Understanding the Benefits of Wheat Variety Mixtures (2 Positions)
Join the PrediMix consortium at the University of Zurich’s Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies to explore how soil microbial communities influence wheat variety interactions and mixture outcomes. This project involves laboratory work and DNA-based microbiome analyses to improve agricultural sustainability. The position is funded for 3.5 years with a potential extension.
Eligibility
- Master’s degree in biology, ecology, microbiology, or a related field
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English
- Experience with statistical analysis (R or similar software)
- Experience with DNA-based molecular techniques and laboratory work
- Interest in interdisciplinary and collaborative research
Check also: 18 Fully Funded PhD Vacancies at the Technical University of Denmark
Deadline: Applications evaluated from 20 July 2025 until filled
PhD Position in Early Child Development
Join the Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Center for Neurodevelopment, Growth and Nutrition of the Newborn (LRF NGN) at the University Hospital Zurich to develop, validate, and standardize a questionnaire assessing the development of five-year-old children born preterm. This EU-funded project, in collaboration with the University of Warwick, UK, aims to enhance long-term follow-up across diverse healthcare systems and cultural contexts.
Eligibility
- Master’s degree in medicine, psychology/neuropsychology, education, or a related field with excellent grades
- Proficient oral communication skills in Swiss-German and proficient written/oral skills in German
- Good written and oral communication skills in English
- Strong interest in early child development and working with infants and families (prior experience is a plus)
- Profound statistical knowledge in modeling longitudinal data (e.g., growth curve analysis) or willingness to learn
- Experience with R or Mplus is an advantage
Worth Read: 11 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarship Opportunities at NTNU, Norway
Deadline: 31 July 2025
Doctoral (Ph.D.) / Assistant Position in Comparative Politics
Prof. Daniele Caramani at the Department of Political Science, University of Zurich has invited applications to pursue a PhD in comparative politics. This position involves writing a dissertation based on your research interests, teaching undergraduate seminars, and participating in the department’s doctoral program and activities. The position is funded for 3 years, with a possible 1-year extension.
More Scholarships: 20 Fully-Funded PhD Scholarships at Uppsala University, Sweden
Eligibility
- Master’s degree with excellent grades in political science or a related field
- Encompassing theoretical knowledge of comparative politics
- Solid training in quantitative methods and statistical packages (Stata and R)
- Ability to work fluently in English and/or German
- International experience and motivation to work independently and in a team
Deadline: 31 October 2025
PhD Position in Democracy and Public Governance
This PhD focus on Switzerland’s direct democratic system. Enroll in the Doctoral Programme in Democracy Studies, contribute to teaching Swiss politics or empirical research, and collaborate on projects at the Centre for Democracy Studies. Funding is guaranteed for four years, subject to PhD proposal approval.
See also: CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2025, Switzerland
Eligibility
- MA/MSc in Political Science or Public Administration with excellent grades
- Solid training in research methods
- Proficiency in English and German (knowledge of French is an asset)
- Strong interest in academic research and pursuing an academic career
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Deadline: 31 August 2025
