Università della Svizzera italiana

The Institute of Media and Journalism at the Università della Svizzera italiana, located in Lugano, Switzerland, is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate.

The position will be supervised by Prof. Colin Porlezza (http://usi.to/dvg), Head of the Institute, who leads research on digital journalism, journalism innovation and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, as well as media accountability. The PhD candidate is expected to contribute to the chair’s main research areas. In addition, he or she will collaborate to the development of the institute’s research agenda. 

What we offer

• A fully funded PhD position for four years starting in September 2026.

• Enrolment in the doctoral educational programme of the Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society.

• An international and multidisciplinary team of scholars that adopts multiple perspectives and methods and promotes a culture of cooperation and mutual support to generate new knowledge and societal impact. 

• Excellent opportunities for national and international networking. 

• The opportunity to present papers at scientific conferences, publish in high-ranking scientific journals, acquire further academic qualifications, and contribute to academic service within the Institute.

Candidates’ profile

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent title) in journalism, media studies, communication sciences, or a related discipline.

• A strong personal interest in digital journalism and artificial intelligence, journalism innovation. Interest in journalism ethics, journalism epistemology and authority, or accountability is an advantage.

• Knowledge of qualitative and ethnographic research methodologies is an advantage, quantitative methods.

• Proficiency in English is mandatory, excellent oral and writing skills in German and/or Italian are an advantage.

• Good organisational skills; intellectual independence and the ability to work in a team and engage in scientific dialogue with colleagues and other members of the Institute.

• Interest in teaching and tutoring students.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Applications received before 26 June 2026, will be given priority. The entire call as well as the application link can be found here: https://content.usi.ch/sites/default/files/storage/attachments/imeg/imeg-phd-digital-journalism-2026.pdf 

Requests for further information can be sent to the Head of the Institute of Media and Journalism, Prof. Colin Porlezza (colin.porlezza@usi.ch).