PhD Position in Political Science: Electoral Choice and Legislators' Quality University of Basel in Switzerland

The Department of Political Science at the University of Basel, Switzerland, invites applications for a PhD position within the project “Electoral choice. Which role does legislators' quality play,” funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF). This collaborative project, led by Prof. Nathalie Giger and Prof. Stefanie Bailer, brings together the University of Basel, the University of Geneva, and a team of international experts to investigate the quality of politicians and how citizens assess it.

The research focuses on moving beyond ideological considerations to examine whether Members of Parliament (MPs) can effectively perform and implement their ideas, emphasizing the impact of effort and policy influence. The project aims to develop a comprehensive index of MP quality, with a particular focus on the qualities most valued by voters. In a subsequent phase, the project will analyze how these factors influence vote choice and explore ways to strengthen the role of quality in elections. The empirical approach combines surveys, survey experiments, and text-as-data methods, offering a rich methodological environment for the successful candidate.

The position is ideal for candidates with a strong background in political science, especially those interested in comparative politics, legislative studies, and voter behavior. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Political Science or a related field, strong quantitative skills, and proficiency in R or another statistical program. The ability to conduct independent research and collaborate within an international team is essential, as is fluency in written and spoken English.

The successful candidate will benefit from a four-year funded position, with salary and social benefits according to University of Basel and SNF regulations. Additional resources are available for conducting independent research and participating in international conferences and summer schools. The PhD student will become a member of the Graduate School of Social Sciences (G3S) and work in a vibrant, international research environment. The position allows for setting an individual research focus within the broader project framework.

To apply, candidates should submit a cover letter outlining their motivation, research interests, and fit with the project, along with a CV, one writing sample (such as a seminar paper or master’s thesis), and copies of relevant diplomas and certificates. The application deadline is 15th December 2025, with interviews scheduled for January 2026. The anticipated start date is 1st March 2026, or as agreed. For further information, applicants may contact Prof. Stefanie Bailer at [email protected].

Apply online via the official application portal: Application Link.