Vacancies
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
The University of Lucerne is a modern, personal and dynamic human sciences university at the heart of Switzerland and Europe. In keeping with our guiding principle 'Moving Human Sciences', we focus on people and their institutions with our six faculties, two academies and two university research centres. Our aim is to develop the University of Lucerne into a pioneering, internationally visible centre for research and teaching in the human sciences.
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, with its ten institutes and departments focuses on interdisciplinarity and innovation in research and teaching. The faculty offers its nearly 700 students a range of integrated degree programmes that are unique in Switzerland. We place great emphasis on excellent supervision and on ensuring close links between teaching and research.
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, with its ten institutes and departments focuses on interdisciplinarity and innovation in research and teaching. The faculty offers its nearly 700 students a range of integrated degree programmes that are unique in Switzerland. We place great emphasis on excellent supervision and on ensuring close links between teaching and research.
As of February 1, 2027, or by agreement, we are looking to fill the following position for the “Department of Sociology"
Assistant Professor of Sociology with a focus on “Communication and Sociological Theory" (100%, tenure track)
As the holder of the position (m/f/d), you will be responsible for teaching and research the sociological fields of theory and communication. In both areas, the professorship is expected to represent and further develop the plurality of sociological theories that characterize the profile of the Lucerne Department of Sociology. In particular, we are seeking a candidate whose profile conceptualizes communication as a fundamental concept of sociological theory and applies this theoretical approach to the analysis and teaching of current societal developments.
In teaching, you will contribute substantially to the following degree programs and areas of study: the BA program in Society and Communication, particularly in the core curriculum and the specialization in Media; the MA program in Society and Communication, especially in the specialization Media & Digital Transformation; as well as the BA and MA Sociology programs. Additionally, you will actively participate in the development of new study programs both within and between faculties. Experience with interdisciplinary degree programs, teaching in sociology, and student supervision is an advantage.
In addition to high-quality teaching, you will have an outstanding research record. Taking your academic age into account, your track record should demonstrate research achievements such as publications in top-tier national and international scholarly journals or presses, the ability to acquire third-party funding, as well as prizes and other academic awards. The Department of Sociology expects that the successful candidate's research will significantly advance sociological research nationally and internationally.
In addition to high-quality teaching, you will have an outstanding research record. Taking your academic age into account, your track record should demonstrate research achievements such as publications in top-tier national and international scholarly journals or presses, the ability to acquire third-party funding, as well as prizes and other academic awards. The Department of Sociology expects that the successful candidate's research will significantly advance sociological research nationally and internationally.
The general hiring requirements are based on § 2 of the appointment regulations of the University of Lucerne, and the employment conditions adhere to the personnel laws of the Canton of Lucerne. These include holding a PhD in sociology by your start date. Maintaining a positive work environment while supporting students and academic staff at all levels is important to the University of Lucerne. Therefore, in addition to stellar qualifications in teaching and research, we are also looking for someone who has excellent social skills and teamwork abilities, a sensibility for implementing equal opportunity policies, an eagerness to supervise doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, and a willingness to engage in administrative responsibilities. We also expect an openness in collaborating in both teaching and research across faculties. Teaching in English or German is possible.
You either have German language proficiency at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages or are willing to acquire it within a reasonable timeframe. The University of Lucerne explicitly encourages qualified female scientists to apply as part of its mission to increase the representation of women in research and teaching. We particularly invite applications from people with disabilities, people of color, and people who identify as members of racial or ethnic minorities in the Swiss context in order to further diversity and equal opportunity. The University of Lucerne promotes work-life balance.
We provide a stimulating work environment at a vibrant faculty, ideal circumstances for your continued growth, and a place of employment with a high quality of life. A motivated and committed team will support you.
The employment conditions adhere to the personnel laws of the Canton of Lucerne.
Prof. Dr. Bettina Beer (bettina.beer@unilu.ch), the chair of the appointment committee, can provide additional information about the application process at. You may also email Prof. Dr. Nadine Arnold (nadine.arnold@unilu.ch), the head of the Department of Sociology, with any questions you may have about the position's specific requirements.
