About the Program
The University of Basel invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position within the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) Starting Grant project Aspirational Urbanism and the Recodification of Defiance (ASPIRA). This interdisciplinary project, led by Prof. Dr. Julie Ren, explores symbolic forms of defiance in contemporary urban settings such as Hong Kong and Taipei, particularly through digital and visual practices. It offers a unique opportunity to conduct innovative research in urban studies with access to strong academic networks, training in creative digital methods, and international collaboration with the University of Amsterdam.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Basel
- Department/Faculty: Urban Studies Unit, Department of Social Sciences
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Julie Ren
- Location: Basel, Switzerland
- Start Date (Anticipated): 1 September 2025
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Full funding provided by SNF; includes stipend, research and travel support
- Working Hours (if applicable): 100% FTE
Required Degree/Diploma
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
Research Focus/Area
- Aspirational urbanism
- Visual and digital discourse analysis
- Urban change and speculative futures
- Cities and defiance (focus on Hong Kong and/or Taipei)
- Urban cultural geography, media, and gender studies
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in urban or cultural geography, urban studies, sociology, anthropology, media studies, gender studies, or a related field
- Fluency in spoken and written Mandarin and English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Regional research experience in/about Hong Kong and/or Taipei
- Proficiency in Cantonese
- Background in qualitative and digital research methods
- Strong analytical and writing skills
- Interest in multimodal discourse analysis
Key Features of the Program
- Cumulative doctoral format (peer-reviewed publications)
- Joint degree with the University of Amsterdam
- Conference and research travel funding
- Optional teaching experience
- Access to expert mentoring and training in digital methods
- Office space in central Basel
- Supportive, interdisciplinary team environment
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application online through the University of Basel’s recruiting portal.
Required Documents:
- CV detailing academic background and research experience
- Cover letter (max. 2 pages) addressing your suitability for the project
- One sample of academic writing (e.g., thesis or term paper)
- Electronic copy of Master’s certificate
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently open
- Deadline: 18 June 2025
- Interviews (online): 25 June 2025
Where to Apply
- University Website: https://www.unibas.ch
- Official Notification: Universität Basel: PhD researcher position
- Application Portal: Apply here
