Senior Researcher: Dual-Use Technologies and International Security

The Center for Security Studies (CSS) at ETH Zurich is a center of competence for Swiss and international security policy. It offers security policy expertise in research, teaching, and policy consultancy. We specialize in connecting academic insight with real-world applications, providing expertise to Swiss government agencies, international organizations, and the wider public.

The CSS Think Tank covers a range of critical areas, including Swiss and Euro-Atlantic security, risk and resilience, cyber defense, defense policy and armaments acquisition, and conflict resolution and mediation.

CSS’s think tank is seeking a Senior Researcher specializing in dual-use technologies, their implications for national and international security, and the governance frameworks needed for their responsible development and use. This role involves producing impactful, policy-relevant research, building networks across technology and government sectors, and contributing to CSS’s teaching and outreach initiatives.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Research and Publication: Conduct and publish high-quality, policy-oriented analyses on how technological advancements affect (inter)national security, with a focus on managing governance challenges and risks associated with dual-use technologies.
• Policy Engagement: Participate actively in policy discussions on critical topics such as technology transfer, defense innovation, and the governance of dual-use technologies.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen relationships among technological, governmental, and academic stakeholders by organizing and attending events, seminars, and international forums.
• Partnership Development: Build and expand strategic partnerships with CSS collaborators, including Swiss government agencies in Bern and international institutions.
• Teaching and Outreach: Support CSS teaching activities, bridging the gap between academic research and policy-making to inform and shape future leaders in security policy.

• Recognized Expertise: Established, internationally recognized expertise in technology and security.
• Experience: Several years of experience in policy consultancy within a think tank, academia, government, or an international organization.
• Educational Background: PhD or Master’s degree in security studies, international relations, or a related field.
• Analytical and Communication Skills: Exceptional analytical abilities and a proven track record of high-quality, policy-oriented writing.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English; knowledge of German and French is an advantage.

We offer a unique opportunity to develop and showcase your expertise within a prestigious think tank at one of the world’s leading universities, closely connected to the tech-development and the policy-making environment. This position is a fixed-term appointment for three years, with the possibility of renewal. We provide competitive working conditions and a central workplace in Zurich, where your on-site presence will be required. Additionally, our commitment to professional growth means that training and career development are integral to our personnel policy, ensuring support for your ongoing advancement.