Lausanne
Graduate Assistant in Commons Studies, Tourism and Territorial Development
- 22 June 2026
- 100%
- Lausanne
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 and Epalinges sites. As an employer, it promotes excellence, recognition of individuals and responsibility.
Presentation
The Institute of Geography and Sustainability (IGD) is advertising a position for a graduate assistant in commons studies, tourism and territorial development, which will be under the responsibility of Prof. Leïla Kebir.
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 an international, interdisciplinary, stimulating environment conducive to high-level research. It regularly hosts conferences and renowned researchers from around the world.
Job-related information
Start date: 1 October 2026
Contract duration: 1 year, renewable 2 x 2 years, maximum 5 years
Activity rate: 80%
Workplace: University of Lausanne, Institute of Geography and Sustainability, UNIL Sion Site, Chemin de l'Institut, 1967 Bramois
Your activities
The candidate will conduct personal research with the aim of obtaining a doctorate in geography or environmental sciences on the theme of commons and their links to territory. An application to tourism will be part of the research. The following themes may be addressed:
• Roles of new commons/urban commons in tourism and territorial development
• Roles of new commons/urban commons in territorial development trajectories
• Commons and territories (contributions, amenities, quality of life, habitability, etc.)
• Commons and development trajectories
This doctorate will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Leïla Kebir. The candidate will devote at least half of their time to their personal research (40% in this case) and the rest to supporting Mrs Kebir's activities as a graduate assistant. In this capacity, they will notably participate in supervising students as well as teaching related to territorial economy and tourism.
Your profile
The candidate must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in economics and social and human sciences (geography, political science, etc.). A taste for research (from theory to fieldwork, liking for conceptualisation) as well as an interest in commons, territorial development and tourist territories are desired.
Expected qualities:
- Interpersonal skills and a liking for teamwork
- 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 the development of 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 further training opportunities are available either at UNIL or within Swiss organisations promoting doctoral research.
Your application file
Application deadline: 21.07.2026 midnight (local time)
Interested persons are requested to send the following documents – in PDF format – via the University of Lausanne online system.
- A cover letter;
- A curriculum vitae;
- Names and email addresses of two academic referees;
- An outline of a doctoral research intention (2-3 pages) related to the job description;
- Copies of university diplomas obtained (with transcripts);
- A copy of a research work (master’s thesis, article, seminar paper, etc.).
Only applications submitted via the online system will be considered.
Selection interviews will take place on 11 August 2026.
Thank you for your understanding.
For further information
Contact person: Leïla Kebir, leila.kebir@unil.ch
Information for prospective doctoral candidates:
https://www.unil.ch/immat/en/home/menuinst/futurs-doctorants.html
Doctoral Programme in Geography: https://geographie.cuso.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.
