UniDistance Suisse invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in History to join the SNSF-funded project Organised Business and Environmental Governance in Western Europe [1945–1995], led by Prof. Sabine Pitteloud. The position offers a two-year contract (80–100% employment) with the possibility of extension until February 2029, depending on project needs and funding. This role is based in Brig and will strengthen the contemporary history research unit while contributing to a growing academic environment grounded in flexible higher education.

The project investigates how polluting industries responded to increasing environmental demands, how business associations interacted with state institutions, and how environmental governance emerged across Western Europe between 1945 and 1995. The successful candidate will focus primarily on the Italian case while contributing to comparative research strands and publications across the broader project.

Key responsibilities and expectations include:

• Conducting original archival research that contributes to the project’s central aims.

• Leading research on Italian industrial actors, business associations, and their environmental policies and networks.

• Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes.

• Presenting results at national and international conferences and contributing to dissemination activities.

• Participating in academic life at UniDistance Suisse with regular on-site presence in Brig.

• Collaborating on grant-writing to secure follow-up project funding.

• Assisting with project-related events such as workshops, conferences, and symposia.

• Collecting archival materials in Switzerland and abroad, with travel support through project funds.

Profile & required qualifications:

• PhD in History or related discipline completed by March 1, 2026 at the latest.

• Expertise in 20th-century history, preferably tied to capitalism, environmental history, public policy, or European integration.

• Ability to conduct archival research in governmental and private archives.

• Strong command of qualitative historical methods; quantitative skills considered an asset.

• Excellent English, plus working ability in Italian and at least one additional project-relevant language (German or French preferred).

Working conditions and benefits:

• 80–100% postdoctoral position, starting March 1, 2026 or by agreement.

• Flexibility and remote work possible up to 50% of working time.

• Professional development through publications, co-authorship, and collaborative research.

• Research travel and conference budget provided via SNSF funding.

• Requirement to reside in Switzerland for the duration of the appointment.

This position is ideal for early-career historians seeking to advance their publication record while contributing to a major European historical research project.