PhD Positions (3) in Theory and History of the Image – eikones Graduate School University of Basel in Switzerland

The eikones Graduate School at the Center for the Theory and History of the Image, University of Basel, invites applications for three fully funded PhD positions in the theory and history of the image. These four-year positions begin on September 1, 2026, and are open to candidates from a wide range of humanities disciplines, including History, Art History, Ancient History, Egyptology, Digital Humanities, Media Studies, English, German and French Literature, Gender Studies, Latin Studies, Musicology, and Philosophy.

Since 2005, eikones has been a leading international and interdisciplinary center for research on images, exploring their meanings, functions, and effects in cultures from Antiquity to the present. The graduate school offers a structured doctoral program with dedicated advising, international exposure, interdisciplinary collaboration, regular interaction with guest scholars, and professional development opportunities. The program aims for the successful completion of an original dissertation within four years, focusing on foundational image theory and the historical investigation of images as instruments of human knowledge and cultural practice.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field, completed within the previous two years by September 1, 2026 (exceptions possible in extraordinary cases). Candidates should demonstrate excellent academic qualifications and present an innovative dissertation project related to the theory and history of the image. Doctoral students are required to be advised by a faculty member of the eikones graduate school and must enroll at the University of Basel for the duration of the program.

Funding is provided according to the salary standards of the University of Basel for doctoral positions, supporting students throughout the four-year program. The grant is intended to facilitate the completion of the dissertation and degree within the funded period. Students are expected to fulfill all curricular requirements and participate actively in the events of the Center for the History and Theory of the Image.

To apply, submit your application in German or English as a single PDF via the University of Basel's online portal by April 10, 2026. The application must include a cover letter, CV, copies of degree certificates, contact details for two references, a project description (maximum 10 pages) with bibliography, and a writing sample (maximum 20 pages). All materials should be combined into one PDF and uploaded in the 'resume' field, with the cover letter also uploaded separately in the 'cover letter' field. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected]. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews.

For more information about the faculty and research areas, visit the eikones Graduate School website: eikones Graduate School Faculty.