PhD Position – MSCA Doctoral Network SUPER: Active Transport, Climate Change, and Vulnerability University of Lausanne in Switzerland

The University of Lausanne invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network, SUPER (Sustainable Sports and Physical Activity for Equity and Resilience). This unique opportunity is part of a network of 17 doctoral fellowships at the intersection of sustainability, sports science, and social equity. The successful candidate will be registered as a fee-free PhD student at the University of Lausanne and will participate in the SUPER Doctoral Network, with opportunities for secondments in industry and other European academic institutions.

The research project, titled “Towards a better understanding of the connections between active transport, climate change, and vulnerability,” aims to:

• Review the connections between active transport, climate change, and vulnerability/social disadvantage.
• Investigate existing policies at national and subnational levels to promote active transport among vulnerable and socially disadvantaged populations.
• Examine the experiences of vulnerable populations with barriers and facilitators to active transport, particularly biking.

The doctoral candidate will be expected to publish scientific articles, present findings at national and international conferences, contribute to the wider SUPER project, and participate in educational activities within the consortium.

Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in political science, sport science, social sciences, administrative science, environmental sciences, or a related discipline. A strong interest in research on climate change and sport organizations, high motivation for doctoral research, excellent qualitative research skills, and proficiency in English are required. MSCA mobility rules apply: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Switzerland for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment and must not already hold a doctoral degree.

Funding: The position is fully funded for three years, with a monthly salary in accordance with MSCA regulations, including living, mobility, and family allowances where applicable. Tuition fees are waived. The salary is paid in Swiss Francs and is subject to tax and social contributions. Funding is provided by Horizon Europe and the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation.

Application Process: The selection process is open, transparent, and merit-based, including eligibility checks, application screening, and online interviews. Applications will open soon. Interested candidates are encouraged to complete the diversity form and attend one of the information sessions on March 23, 2026, for further details.

For more information, visit the official FindAPhD project page or contact Prof Peter Gelius. The application deadline is April 18, 2026.