Fully Funded PhD Positions in Switzerland 2026 at the Geneva Graduate Institute
Are you a history student with a passion for European security and memory politics? The Geneva Graduate Institute in Switzerland offers two fully funded PhD positions in 2026. These roles focus on the project “Narrative Belonging: Memory Politics and NATO Enlargement in Europe.” They provide a chance to work on important research while earning a full salary.
About the Research Project
This project looks at how past memories and stories shape NATO’s growth in Europe after the Cold War. It goes beyond military views to study national histories, identities, and events like accession ceremonies. Key topics include the 1999 entry of Visegrád countries, the 2004 Vilnius group expansion, and the recent joins by Finland and Sweden.
Researchers will examine stories of occupation, freedom, neutrality, and democracy shifts. Poland and the Baltic states get special focus, but other cases may appear too. The work connects history with today’s security needs in Europe.
Research Methods and Setting
You will work in Geneva at a top international school. The team uses methods like checking NATO and national archives, analyzing media, interviewing diplomats, and building a digital archive. This mix helps create strong findings.
The Centre on Conflict, Development and Peacebuilding hosts the project. It offers chances to team up with experts from different fields and build networks.
What Doctoral Researchers Will Do
If selected, you will join the full PhD program with classes. Your tasks include archive visits, media reviews, interviews, and digital archive work. You will also attend workshops, conferences, and write your own thesis linked to the project.
This balance lets you grow as a scholar while helping the team.
Key Benefits
These positions come with full funding under Swiss National Science Foundation rules. The contract lasts four years, from September 2026 to August 2030. You get mentorship, travel support for research, and conference chances.
Geneva offers a lively, multicultural spot to live and study. Access to world-class resources makes it ideal for your career.
Who Can Apply
You need a Master’s degree in history or a related area. Show interest in European history, memory, or security studies. Strong research skills and good English are musts. Knowing Polish or Baltic languages helps but is not required.
Be ready for solo and team work.
Application Documents
Prepare these in PDF:
- Motivation letter
- Research proposal, up to 1000 words
- CV
- Transcripts and degrees
- Writing sample, like a thesis chapter
- Two referee names
- English test score if needed
Deadline and Next Steps
Apply by 29 May 2026 at 23:59 CET. Shortlisted people face interviews in mid-June 2026. Use the official portal: apply here. For details, see this page or email Professor Jussi Hanhimaki at jussi.hanhimaki@graduateinstitute.ch.
Conclusion
These fully funded PhD positions in Switzerland 2026 offer a rare shot at impactful research on NATO and memory politics. With strong support and a clear path, they suit driven scholars. Act fast to meet the deadline and start your journey in Geneva.
