PhD and Postdoc in Anthropology/Sociology of Health and Illness and Science and Technology Studies at SUPSI University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland in Switzerland

SUPSI is recruiting for two research positions in the Competence Centre Care, Health and Society (CARES) in Manno, Switzerland: a 4-year PhD candidate and a 4-year Postdoc in Anthropology/Sociology of Health and Illness and/or Science and Technology Studies (STS).

The positions are part of the SNSF-funded project “The expertisation of patient knowledge: the recognition, institutionalisation and professionalisation of patient expertise in healthcare and society (EPiK)”. The project examines how patient knowledge becomes recognised as expertise within healthcare institutions and society, with a focus on mental health, diabetes, and cancer. Research themes include epistemic legitimation, institutionalisation, professionalisation, social inclusion/exclusion, digitalisation, and patient/public involvement in healthcare.

PhD position: The PhD candidate will work mainly on the cancer case study, using qualitative and ethnographic methods such as documentary analysis, observations, and interviews across Switzerland, including 6–9 months in French-speaking Switzerland. The PhD is enrolled at the University of Lausanne, with possible participation in CUSO and the Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+) doctoral activities.

Postdoc position: The Postdoc will work on the mental health and diabetes case studies, also using qualitative and ethnographic methods across German- and French-speaking Switzerland. The role includes data collection, analysis, comparison, dissemination, and collaboration with the project team.

Eligibility highlights: The PhD requires a Master’s degree in social sciences. The Postdoc requires a PhD in social sciences. For both roles, strong interest or experience in health and care practices, expert and lay knowledge, and STS/health sociology is expected. Language requirements are important: the PhD requires fluency in Italian, French, and English; the Postdoc requires French or German, plus Italian and English, with a third national language as an asset.

Funding and conditions: Both positions are fixed-term 4-year contracts funded by the SNSF project. The post mentions support for conferences, workshops, and training opportunities. No stipend amount is specified.

Application deadline: 23 August 2026. Applications must be submitted online using the appropriate form. Required documents include a cover letter/motivation letter, CV, diplomas/certificates, thesis or research work, and other supporting documents as listed in the call.

Supervision: The PhD candidate will work under Dr. Giada Danesi (SUPSI) and Prof. Dr. Nolwenn Bühler (University of Lausanne). The Postdoc is supervised by Dr. Giada Danesi.