Université de Lausanne
Lausanne
Graduate Assistant in Tourism, Mountain and Policy
- 02 October 2026
- 100%
- Lausanne
Job summary
Join the University of Lausanne, a top international institution, as a research assistant. Enjoy a supportive and stimulating work environment.
Tasks
- Conduct personal research leading to a PhD in tourism studies.
- Support Prof. Christophe Clivaz in teaching and mentoring students.
- Explore contemporary issues in mountain tourism and suggest relevant themes.
Skills
- Hold a Master's degree, preferably in social sciences or humanities.
- Strong research skills with a focus on tourism topics.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Is this helpful?
About the job
Introduction
A leading international teaching and research institution, Unil has nearly 5,000 staff members and 17,000 students, distributed between the Dorigny campus and the CHUV, Epalinges and Sion sites. As an employer, it promotes excellence, recognition of individuals and responsibility. unil.ch/travailler
Presentation
The Institute of Geography and Sustainability (IGD) is advertising a position for a graduate assistant in tourism governance and policy which will be under the responsibility of Prof. Christophe Clivaz.
The Institute of Geography and Sustainability brings together around 130 members working in the fields of geography and sustainability. With 24 professors and nearly 60 doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, the IGD offers a stimulating international and interdisciplinary environment conducive to high-level research. It regularly hosts conferences and renowned researchers from around the world.
Job Information
Start date:01.02.2027
Contract duration: 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years
Work rate: 80%
Workplace: University of Lausanne, Institute of Geography and Sustainability, Unil site in Sion, 1967 Bramois, Switzerland
Your activities
The candidate will conduct independent research aiming to obtain a doctorate in tourism studies on a topic related to contemporary issues in mountain tourism, for example:
- the role of seasonal workers in resorts;
- tourism actors facing climate change;
- real estate dynamics in resorts;
- degrowth and sobriety in tourism;
- issues related to the success of outdoor sports practices.
Other topics may be proposed. This doctorate will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Christophe Clivaz.
The candidate will devote at least half of their time to their personal research (40% in this case) and the rest to supporting Prof. Clivaz’s activities as a graduate assistant. In this capacity, they will notably participate in supervising students as well as in Prof. Clivaz’s teaching.
Your profile
The candidate must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in social sciences and humanities (anthropology, economics, geography, political science, sociology). A taste for research - from theory to fieldwork - as well as an interest in mountain tourism issues are required.
The following are expected:
- interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team;
- initiative and autonomy;
- very good reading and writing skills;
- proficiency in French (working language) and good knowledge of English. German would be a plus.
Your benefits
The IGD offers a stimulating environment and a culture conducive to developing a research career. IGD members are part of international research networks and graduate assistants are encouraged and supported to participate in annual conferences as well.
The IGD offers a competitive salary and financial support for fieldwork and conference participation. In addition, various opportunities for further training are available either at Unil or within Swiss organisations promoting doctoral research.
Your application file
Application deadline: 10.11.2026 midnight (local time)
Interested persons are requested to send the following documents – in PDF format – via the University of Lausanne’s online system:
- a cover letter;
- a curriculum vitae;
- names and email addresses of two academic referees;
- a draft of a doctoral research proposal (2-3 pages) related to the job description;
- copies of university diplomas obtained (with transcripts);
- a sample of research work (master’s thesis, article, seminar paper, etc.).
Selection interviews will take place on 23 November 2026.
For further information
Contact person: Christophe Clivaz, christophe.clivaz@unil.ch
Remarks
Unil is committed to:
• equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
• ensuring an open, respectful and supportive environment;
• offering working conditions favourable to balancing different spheres of life;
• supporting scientific succession.
