PhD student in Latin American Studies (m/w/d)

Please apply with a CV, transcript of records, a writing sample (e.g., your master thesis or a term paper), a cover letter in which you clearly describe which of the topic areas you are interested in (if more than one, please state your order of preference), and the names of two academic referees (who will be contacted in the event of a shortlist).

For more information, please contact Prof. Dr. Matías Dewey (E-Mail schreiben).
Please apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

PhD student in Latin American Studies (m/w/d)

You will write a PhD dissertation in the field of economic sociology. You will work under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Matías Dewey and be enrolled in a doctoral program at the University of St. Gallen.
You will conduct rigorous research in one of the topic areas mentioned below. Details will be discussed and negotiated with the candidate, considering her/his interests and skills.
1.       Illegal or informal economies in Latin America
2.       Legal intermediaries in illegal economies in Latin America
3.       Digitalization of illegal economies in Latin America 
 
Most of your time will be spent conducting academic research. To a lesser extent, you will assist in teaching activities and be involved in the administration of the Swiss Society of Americanists, the Swiss School of Latin American Studies, and the Centro Latinoamericano-Suizo. You are expected to work in your office at the University of St. Gallen on a daily basis.

• Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., sociology, political science, development studies, anthropology) to be completed by summer 2024.
• Strong interest in conducting research about the micro and/or macro foundations of illegal economies in the region [Topic Area 1], exploring legal intermediation in illegal markets [Topic Area 2], or investigating how digital platforms and/or payment services are transforming illegal economies in Latin America [Topic Area 3]. Examples of illegal markets that may be the subject of research include wildlife, illicit drugs, human trafficking, and trafficking in cultural/archaeological artifacts, body parts, child sexual exploitation material, etc.
• Strong interest in academic research and qualitative methods.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. German and/or Spanish language skills are an advantage.

"A place where knowledge is created" - As one of Europe's leading universities of economics and business administration, the University of St.Gallen (HSG), Switzerland, is committed to the education of over 9800 students. The HSG is one of the largest employers in the region and provides an attractive and innovative environment for more than 3300 researchers, educators and professional staff.