University of St.Gallen

Your tasks

The successful candidate will:

• work within the NOSTRADAMUS Horizon Europe project (Research and Innovation Action) which seeks to develop a centralised Data Cube Ecosystem together with multifunctional open-source digital applications for key actors in the EU agricultural sector (e.g., farmers, advisors, SMEs, IT expert providers, policy makers) to support informed and sustainable decision making and transform the EU agricultural sector into a modern, highly efficient, inclusive, resilient and competitive sector;
• engage in co-creation processes working in an interdisciplinary environment with experts on big data analytics, ecosystem modelling, soil science, geoinformatics, agroeconomics, computer engineering, environmental engineering, earth observation, among others (multi-actor approach);
• conduct, publish and present high-quality and high-impact empirical research

• analysing agricultural market and socio-economic data for farm decision making and policy creation,
• investigating the socio-economic impact (direct and indirect effects) of the developed digital applications (e.g., cost-benefit analyses), and
• contribute to transferring knowledge and co-designing (online) training activities and materials for key actors in the agricultural sector;

• publish peer-reviewed papers, present at scientific conferences, participate in and provide support for research, organisational and administrative tasks and activities.

Your profile

• PhD degree in (Agro) Economics, (Digital) Sociology, Education, Technology, Political Science or a related social science discipline
• Strong interest in academic research and proficiency in quantitative (survey research, descriptive and inferential statistical analyses) and (to a lesser degree) qualitative research methods
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, German language skills are an asset
• Experience in participating in European (collaborative) research projects is an asset (e.g., related to the Green Deal, Agriculture, Soil Health, Food, Climate Change, SDGs)
• Track record of international publications, third-party funding and engagement in academic bodies
• Ability to work effectively, both independently and collaboratively, in an interdisciplinary and international research team
• Motivated by personal and team accomplishments, flexible, efficient, reliable

The successful candidate will collaborate with Sabine Hoidn (project leader) in an EU cutting-edge research project. The position is based at the Research Institute of Sociology (SfS) and associated with the Chair of Sociology. We offer an interesting and challenging position in a stimulating and supportive environment with a vibrant team of researchers and excellent working conditions. The candidate will have opportunities to further their own research agenda and academic qualification, collaborate with other members of the SfS research group (e.g., joint publications, teaching), develop a strong academic network and is expected to (co-) apply for (additional) external funding. Funding for scientific conferences, additional training and research activities will be provided.

For job-related questions

PD Dr.Sabine Hoidn
Senior Researcher, Associate Lecturer

«I am delighted that you are interested in this position at our University and would be pleased to meet you soon.»

Prof. Ph.D. Patrick Aspers
Full Professor (Chair) of Sociology

«People are key to success. We look forward to meeting you!»