Austria: PhD Position, University of St. Gallen (HSG), Migration Studies
Project: SNSF Ambizione “Going Native: Autochthony, (Im-)Mobility and Uneven Entanglements between Kosovo and Switzerland”
PI: Dr. Danae Leitenberg • Supervisor/Host: Prof. Jelena Tosic
Contract: 01.09.2026–31.08.2030 • Application deadline: 02.03.2026
About the position
HSG seeks a PhD researcher for subproject B of “Going Native.” This subproject examines how ideas of “Swissness” and nativeness influence economic ties in Kosovo, focusing on Swiss/Kosovar entrepreneurs and state-supported initiatives. The work involves 12 months of ethnographic fieldwork in Pristina, using participant observation and qualitative interviews. You will write your dissertation in English within HSG’s DOK PhD programme (Organization Studies and Cultural Theory), and contribute to publications, conference papers, and the organization of workshops.
Who should apply
Master’s degree in social/cultural anthropology, ethnology, sociology, geography, or a related field.
Experience with qualitative and ethnographic methods.
Familiarity with mobility/migration and/or nationalism is an advantage.
Language requirements: Albanian (required for fieldwork); English (fluent/advanced). German or French is a plus.
Open to all nationalities; ability to work both independently and in a team.
How to apply
Submit (in English) a motivation letter, CV, a sample of academic work (e.g., MA thesis chapter or published article), relevant certificates, and the contact details of two academic referees via the application link by 02.03.2026. https://jobs.unisg.ch/offene-stellen/phd-position-in-the-ambizione-project-going-native-autochthony-im-mobility-and-uneven-entanglements-between-kosovo-and-switzerland-pi-dr-danae-leitenberg-host-supervisor-prof-jelena-tosic-migration-studies-shss-m-f-d/4b416390-5cad-4bf7-bdc3-c98ca7dd06ff
Interviews: late March 2026. Recruitment expected to conclude by early April 2026.
Programme info and contacts
DOK PhD programme (Organization Studies and Cultural Theory): https://www.unisg.ch/en/research/phd/organization-studies-and-cultural-theory-dok/
Inquiries: danae.leitenberg@unibas.ch (Dr. Danae Leitenberg) • jelena.tosic@unisg.ch (Prof. Jelena Tosic)