Fully Funded Postdoc in Textile Art History at University of Bern University of Bern in Switzerland

The Department of History of Textile Arts (Abegg-Stiftung Professorship) at the Institute of Art History, University of Bern, invites applications for a fully funded three-year postdoctoral position in textile art history. The successful candidate will develop and implement an independent research project focused on textile objects, practices, and knowledge systems from the early Middle Ages to around 1850, with a strong emphasis on materiality, technique, economy, and social and religious contexts. The department's research and teaching cover both Europe and the Islamic world as a connective space between Asia and Europe.

The postdoc will actively contribute to teaching (1–2 courses per semester, in German and/or English), administration, and academic service. The position offers an inspiring and collegial research environment, access to international networks, collections, and archives, structured career support, and a high quality of life in Bern and the Bernese Oberland. The department is committed to strengthening textile art history as an integral part of material- and object-based art history, developing new perspectives on production contexts, circulation, use, and meanings of textile artifacts.

Applicants must hold a PhD in art history or a closely related field, with a clear research profile in medieval and/or early modern textiles. Experience in independent research, academic writing, and publishing, as well as an object-based and source-driven approach to research and teaching, is required. Candidates should be highly motivated to develop their academic profile, able to organize their work independently, and balance research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities. Very good German language skills (or willingness to acquire them), excellent English skills, and proficiency in relevant source languages are necessary. Residency in Switzerland or willingness to relocate is expected.

The position is fully funded for three years, with employment and salary according to University of Bern guidelines. The role includes structured career support, access to research networks, collections, and archives, and opportunities for professional development. Application deadline is March 15, 2026, with interviews scheduled for April 16–17, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Corinne Mühlemann at [email protected].