Full professor of sociology with a focus on “micro-organizational sociology”

Department of Sociology, University of Lucerne, Switzerland

The University of Lucerne is a modern and dynamic human sciences university located in the heart of Switzerland and Europe. In keeping with our motto of ‘Moving Human Sciences’ and with our six faculties and two academies, soon to be joined by two university research centres, we focus on people and their institutions. Our aim is to develop the University of Lucerne into a pioneering, internationally renowned centre for research and teaching in the human sciences.

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences with its ten departments and centers focuses on interdisciplinarity and innovation in research and teaching. The faculty offers its nearly 800 students a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary degree programmes, many of which are unique in Switzerland. We place great emphasis on excellent supervision and close connection between teaching and research.

As of February 1, 2025, or by agreement, we are looking to fill the following position at the Department of Sociology:

Full professor of sociology with a focus on “micro-organizational sociology” (100%)

As the head (m/f/d) of the research and teaching unit, you are responsible for the area of organizational sociology that relates to processes of organizing (“micro-organizational sociology”). In teaching and research, you will contribute to the conceptual-theoretical and empirical development of the field as well as complement the already existing professorship of organizational sociology, which deals with the interface of organization and society (“macro-organizational sociology”).You use qualitative, quantitative, or integrate diverse research methods in your empirical work, and you approach processes of organizing within and between organizations from a sociological perspective. Your work studies microdynamics within and between organizations, with a focus, for example and not exclusively, on power constellations, culture, social networks, gender, diversity, digital technologies, classification, standards, or evaluations.

You will provide high-quality teaching in the BA core module “Organizations” and in the MA concentration “Organization and Management” of the BA and MA programs “Social and Communication Sciences,” in the BA and MA Sociology programs, as well as in interdisciplinary and interfaculty BA and MA study programs. Additionally, you will actively participate in the development of new study programs both within and between faculties. Your knowledge of interdisciplinary degree programs and your teaching experience in the area of organizational sociology are assets.

The general hiring requirements are based on § 2 of the appointment regulations of the University of Lucerne. These include a PhD in the social sciences as well as a habilitation or habilitation-equivalent achievements in sociology. In addition to high-quality teaching, you will also have an outstanding research record. Taking your academic age into account, your research track record is based on your research achievements such as national and international publications, collaboration within the field of organizational sociology, outside funding acquired to date, as well as prizes and other awards. The Department of Sociology expects that the professorship’s research will significantly advance the field of organizational sociology nationally and internationally.

A positive work environment and supporting students and academic staff at all levels are very important to the University of Lucerne. Therefore, in addition to having high qualifications in teaching and research, we are also looking for someone who has excellent social skills and teamwork abilities, a high level of motivation for implementing equal opportunity policies, an eagerness to supervise doctoral and post-doctoral scientists, and a high level of willingness to engage in administrative responsibilities. We also expect an openness to collaborate in both teaching and research across faculties. Teaching in English and German is possible.

You already have German language proficiency at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or you will get it soon enough.

The University of Lucerne explicitly encourages qualified female scientists to apply as part of its mission to increase the representation of women in research and teaching. We particularly invite applications from people with disabilities, people of color, and people who identify as members of racial or ethnic minorities in the Swiss context in order to further diversity and equal opportunity. The University of Lucerne promotes work-life balance.

We provide a stimulating work environment at a vibrant faculty, ideal circumstances for your continued growth, and a place of employment with a high quality of life. A motivated and committed team will support you.

The employment conditions adhere to the personnel laws of the Canton of Lucerne.

Prof. Dr. Daniel Speich Chassé, the chair of the appointment committee, can provide you with additional information about the application process at daniel.speich@unilu.ch. Please email Prof. Dr. Sophie Mützel, the chair of the Department of Sociology, at sophie.muetzel@unilu.ch with any questions you may have about the position’s specific requirements. Talks and interviews with candidates are expected to take place on May 14 and 15, 2024.