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Introduction
The University of Lausanne (Unil) is a higher teaching and research institution composed of seven faculties where nearly 17,000 students and 5,000 collaborators, professors, and researchers work and study between the Dorigny campus and the CHUV, Epalinges and Sion sites. As an employer, it encourages excellence, recognition of individuals and responsibility.
Presentation
The Institute of Geography and Sustainability (IGD) seeks to fill a position of First Assistant in the field of tourist mobilities, approached from the perspective of algorithmic governance (under the supervision of Prof. Mathis Stock), who will be integrated into the “Cultures & Natures of Tourism” research collective (Unil Sion campus).
The IGD is an interdisciplinary community of about 130 academics that work in the fields of Geography and Sustainability. With 17 professors and more than 40 PhD students and Post-docs, the department offers a vibrant, stimulating environment for cutting-edge research. It hosts regular lecture series and distinguished guest researchers from around the world.
Job information
Starting date: 01.09.2026
Contract length: 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years
Activity rate: 100%
Workplace: University of Lausanne, IGD, Unil-Sion Campus & Géopolis, Quartier Mouline, Lausanne
Your responsibilities
The successful candidate will conduct personal research on the analysis of digital issues (digital platforms, social networks, datafication, AI, etc.) in relation to tourist mobility in the broad sense of the “presential” economy in cities. In particular, issues of spatiality, i.e., the control of location and movement, algorithmic governance, as well as the surveillance, regulation, or management of the presence-based economy of “global cities” through digital traces are relevant topics.
The candidate will devote 60% of their time to their personal research (post-doc) and 40% to supporting Prof. Mathis Stock's research and teaching activities in the field of tourism and digital technology. In this capacity, he/she will be part of the “Cultures & Natures of Tourism” research group (Unil Sion campus) and will participate in the CUSO doctoral school in digital studies (https://numerique.cuso.ch/accueil).
Your qualifications
- PhD in geography, preferably related to mobility, tourism, digital technology, or the local economy;
- Expertise in digital technology and AI;
- Fluency in French and English;
- Skills in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies;
- Organizational skills;
- Teaching experience would be an asset.
What the position offers you
We offer a stimulating work environment and atmosphere, with dedicated support for developing an academic career. Members of our research groups become part of international networks and benefit from opportunities to attend conferences and workshops around the world.
We offer an excellent remuneration package and additional funds for fieldwork and conferences. Different formation opportunities are possible at Unil or in Swiss institutions that promote doctoral research.
Your application
Deadline: 01.05.2026 (recruitment interviews will take place on May 20, 2026)
Please submit the following documents in PDF format only via the career website of the University of Lausanne:
- Letter of motivation;
- Full CV;
- A short (2-3 pages) research proposal;
- Scans of university degrees;
- The Doctoral thesis;
- One to three representative papers.
Contact for further information
Additional information
Unil is committed to:
• equality, diversity and inclusion within its community;
• ensuring an open and respectful environment that is conducive to personal development;
• offering working conditions that facilitate work-life balance;
• supporting early career researchers.
