Post-doctoral position in the professorship of history and philosophy of mathematical sciences

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The professorship for history and philosophy of mathematical sciences , led by Prof. Roy Wagner, is a place for reflecting on all aspects of mathematical knowledge from the point of view of the humanities. Our team studies various historical and contemporary mathematical cultures from a multitude of methodological approaches.

Project background

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to conduct independent research on the development, practice, or social and cultural roles of mathematics (including mathematical aspects of other sciences) from the points of view of history, philosophy or neighbouring humanities disciplines (such as STS, cultural studies, social anthropology). The starting date is around September 2026. The position is for two years with the possibility of extension.

Job description

• You will be in charge of your own research
• You will take part in the professorship’s academic and social activities
• You will teach one course of your choice per semester (2 weekly hours) in the MAGPW or SiP programs
• You will have access to teaching assistants, research and travel funding, an international network of collaborators, and the wide variety of ETH career development resources
• The working language is English

Profile

• You are required to have a doctoral degree in a field related to your research project before the beginning of your employment
• You must be able to initiate your research project and develop it independently
• You must be willing to exchange with your fellow team members, support them, and learn from them
• Non-traditional research topics, questions and methods are encouraged
• We also encourage projects on non-European mathematics, commercial or practical mathematics, cross-cultural mathematical exchange, and philosophical projects that consider mathematics as a practice, rather than as an abstract ideal
• The chair is not a good environment for strict analytic philosophy projects, but is open to projects that integrate analytic philosophy methodologies

Workplace

We offer

• The position is full time (41 hours per week) by default, but can be reduced for care-work, health, or wellbeing
• Flexible working conditions (flexible working hours, possibility for part-time work, home office)
• The pay-scale is available here
• Training opportunities and perspectives for career development
• Support programmes (e.g. mentoring) and networks
• Commitment to diversity

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application by May 31, with the following documents:

• CV with list of publications
• A one page summary of your PhD (up to 3,500 characters)
• A two page presentation of your research plans during your time in the professorship (up to 7,000 characters, excluding references)
• A half page statement (up to 2,000 characters) explaining how you can contribute to improving wellbeing, diversity, inclusion and/or equity in the research group, department, university, or discipline. This may include relevant background, training, activities, etc.
• The names and contact details of 2 references (no reference letters are required at this stage)

The applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged. Candidates may be asked for additional documents (such as references, writing samples, etc.) and may be invited for interviews. A decision will be made by the end of June 2026.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Roy Wagner at roy.wagner@ gess.ethz.ch.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

Apply online now

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.