Organizer Information
The University of Basel is one of Switzerland’s oldest and most internationally recognized research universities, with a strong reputation in humanities, media studies, and interdisciplinary research. Within its Department of Arts, Media, and Philosophy, the university fosters critical inquiry across visual culture, philosophy, and digital media theory, positioning itself as a leading academic institution in European higher education.
The Chair of Photographic Media in the Digital Age, led by Prof. Dr. Estelle Blaschke, is embedded within the Seminar for Media Studies. It focuses on the evolving role of photography in contemporary society, particularly in relation to digital infrastructures, image technologies, and knowledge production systems. The chair is known for combining historical analysis with contemporary theoretical approaches, bridging visual culture, science and technology studies (STS), and digital humanities.
Title & Description
PhD position (60%) at the Chair of Photographic Media, University of Basel
This opportunity is a four-year doctoral research position focused on independent academic work in the field of photographic media, with a specialization in digital image cultures and their social, political, and technological dimensions. The position is hosted at the Chair of Photographic Media in the Digital Age and begins on 1 August 2026 (or by agreement), with continuation subject to successful evaluation after the first year.
The PhD candidate will develop an original dissertation project addressing historical, theoretical, and contemporary aspects of photography and image technologies. The research is expected to critically engage with themes such as algorithmic image production, digital visual culture, media infrastructures, and the role of images in knowledge systems.
In addition to research, the candidate will contribute to academic teaching by leading one seminar per semester and will participate in the intellectual and public activities of the chair. The position emphasizes both scholarly independence and active integration into a collaborative research environment.
Categories
- Fellowship
- Research
- Visual Arts (Photography)
- Digital Media
- Media Arts
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Scholarship
- Education
- Art Writing (theoretical research component)
Eligibility
- A completed university degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in one of the following fields:
Media Studies, Visual Studies, Science and Technology Studies, Art History, Cultural Studies, Digital Humanities, or related disciplines - Strong academic background and ability to design an independent doctoral research project
- Research focus aligned with photographic media in digital and historical contexts
- Interest in digital image cultures, algorithms, and visual knowledge systems
- Strong organizational and teamwork skills
- Interest in innovative teaching methodologies
- Willingness to contribute to public outreach activities
The position is open to international applicants, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The university actively encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Fully funded PhD-level academic position (60% employment rate)
- Annual salary based on the University of Basel pay scale
- 4-year research contract (initial 1-year evaluation period + 3-year extension)
- Access to a high-level academic research environment
- Integration into international research networks
- Teaching experience (1 seminar per semester)
- Institutional support for academic publishing and conference participation
- Professional development and research mentoring
- Public outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal for doctoral dissertation
- Academic certificates
- Master’s thesis
- Reference letters
All materials must be submitted via the official online application portal.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 20 May 2026
- Start Date: 1 August 2026 (or by agreement)
- Duration: 4 years (with evaluation after year 1)
Location
Basel, Switzerland
Additional Details
This PhD position is part of a highly specialized research chair focusing on the intersection of photography, digital technologies, and critical theory. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary engagement, combining humanities research with technological and sociopolitical analysis of visual systems.
The institution promotes excellence through diversity and supports equal opportunity policies. The role is designed not only as a doctoral training position but also as an entry point into international academic research networks in media studies and visual culture.
Candidates are expected to actively contribute to the intellectual life of the department, participate in seminars and workshops, and engage in public-facing academic activities alongside their dissertation research.