Position Overview

The Institute for Biomedical Ethics (IBMB) at the University of Basel invites applications for a PhD position in Empirical Bioethics. This exciting opportunity is part of a Swiss National Science Foundation-funded research project under the National Research Program NRP84, exploring the ethical and social implications of new plant breeding technologies.

The project adopts a planetary health ethics approach to investigate the social and political acceptance (or rejection) of genetically modified foods. Through systematic reviews, public debate analysis, stakeholder interviews, and ethical analysis, the project aims to address the trade-offs and arguments surrounding these technologies. Collaborating with stakeholders—including policymakers, farmers, food industry representatives, NGOs, and scientists—the research is highly interdisciplinary and practice-oriented, with implementation activities embedded in the project’s structure.

This three-year position offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment, alongside a Postdoc, and contribute to impactful research addressing critical societal challenges.

Eligibility Requirements

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with the following qualifications:

• Educational Background:
  • A Master’s degree in Ethics, Philosophy, Bioethics, Public Health, Social Sciences (e.g., Political Science, STS, Anthropology), Medicine, or related fields.
• Academic Excellence:
  • Strong academic grades at the Master’s and Bachelor’s levels.
• Language Skills:
  • Proficiency in English is essential.
  • Knowledge of German and Italian is highly desirable.
• Empirical Research Skills:
  • Knowledge of qualitative research methods and willingness to engage in empirical projects.
• Personal Attributes:
  • High level of commitment, intrinsic motivation, and a long-term interest in pursuing an academic career.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

1. Research Activities:
   • Conduct a systematic review of reasons and arguments related to plant breeding technologies.
   • Perform content analysis of public debates in Switzerland and the US.
   • Conduct and analyze qualitative stakeholder interviews.
2. Ethical and Social Analysis:
   • Map trade-offs and arguments based on empirical findings and literature.
3. Academic Engagement:
   • Document and present research findings in English through publications and presentations.
   • Mentor research assistants, supervise students, and review their contributions.
4. Education and Training:
   • Participate in courses on research methods, moral philosophy, or plant biology, depending on your academic background.
5. Organizational Duties:
   • Support organizational processes at the IBMB as needed.

What We Offer

At the University of Basel, you will benefit from:

• Professional Development:
  • Opportunities to contribute to a multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary research environment.
  • Enrollment in a Swiss Bologna-accredited PhD program in Bioethics and Health Policy at one of Europe’s leading research universities.
• Collaborative Environment:
  • A positive and productive work atmosphere with support for academic growth.
  • Opportunities to contribute to teaching and collaborate on additional research projects.
• Comprehensive Support:
  • Empirical methods training tailored to successfully conduct your PhD project.
  • Salary in line with Swiss academic standards and additional funding opportunities (e.g., Gender Equality Grant for women).
• Excellent Infrastructure:
  • Access to world-class facilities in a city recognized as a global center for biomedical research.

Application Process

Required Documents:
Applications must be in English and submitted as a single PDF file, including:

1. Motivation Letter: Max. 1 page, outlining your interest in the position.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include your academic achievements, Master’s thesis title, and contact information for at least two academic referees.
3. Master’s Thesis: A PDF copy of your thesis.

Submission:
Apply via the online recruiting platform no later than 28 February 2025.