Ahmed Ajil

The University of Lucerne is advertising a Postdoctoral Researcher position for the ERC-funded project TRACES (Terrorism, Race and Embodied Security) . The role is based at the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences and Psychology and is a 4-year appointment at 50–60% . The project is led by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Ajil and examines counterterrorism policies and practices in Switzerland, Germany, and Belgium . Research tasks include quantitative and qualitative analysis of criminal and administrative case law, analysis of power dynamics and social categories, semi-structured interviews with practitioners, focus groups with activists and civil society, and courtroom ethnography. The position also involves writing scientific papers and contributing to collaborative project sessions. Applicants should hold a doctorate in the social sciences , ideally with a background in security studies, criminology, or counterterrorism . The post calls for autonomy in field research, experience in scientific writing and publishing, and the ability to work in an international research team. Language requirements include proficiency in English and German and/or French ; basic knowledge of Arabic is desirable. Willingness to travel abroad is also required. The workplace is the University of Lucerne in Switzerland , with the possibility of remote work. The application deadline is 15 September 2026 . Interested candidates should apply through the university job portal.