PhD at University of Zurich
The Competence Center Palliative Care offers specialized medical support for adult patients facing advanced, incurable illnesses. This center provides valuable assistance throughout all stages of the illness, aiming to enhance the tolerability of medical treatments in the early phases and subsequently alleviate suffering as individuals cope with life-threatening conditions. The center also assists in navigating challenging treatment decisions and endeavors to improve the overall quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. Our team of palliative care professionals includes doctors, nurses, psychologists, chaplains, and social workers. Additionally, our department conducts extensive research in the field of palliative care, encompassing a wide range of topics, including psychosocial and biological aspects, in patients with advanced incurable diseases and their caregivers.
PhD Project
As part of this role, you will engage in research projects that specifically address issues concerning the burden experienced by caregivers and the distress associated with bereavement. The death of a spouse is widely recognized as one of the most challenging and impactful life events, often linked to an increased risk of health problems and premature mortality. This PhD project focuses on investigating the influence of lifetime exposure to stress and neuro-inflammatory sensitivity on the psychobiological adjustment of individuals who care for cancer patients and subsequently experience bereavement. The objective is to identify patterns of individual variations in long-term adjustment to loss by examining psychological and biological markers over time. Additionally, the study aims to pinpoint psychological and biological markers that indicate individuals who are at the highest risk of encountering adverse health outcomes following bereavement. Your primary task will involve writing a dissertation comprised of research papers suitable for publication in respected, peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, you will have opportunities to present your research at both national and international conferences. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in the PhD program in Clinical Science and contribute to teaching activities.
PhD Requirements
You have gained a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology or Medicine with excellent grades. You have proficient language skills in English language. We expect a self-dependent personality with a strong interest in psychoneuroimmunology and palliative care research, and who shows extraordinary initiative and motivation.
What we offer
Our program dedicated to studying palliative care values the collaboration of experts from various disciplines. The PhD position is guaranteed for a duration of three years, with an annual salary of approximately CHF 47,000 gross in the first year, increasing to CHF 50,000 gross in the third year. For clinical psychologists or medical doctors, there is an opportunity to allocate 20% of their working time towards clinical practice while serving as a PhD student. The PhD program in Clinical Science offers an engaging curriculum that focuses on developing skills in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. Additionally, a range of supplementary courses such as academic writing and presentation skills are available.
How to Apply
The preferred employment start date is 1 September 2023 or to be mutually agreed. Please submit your application by July 1st, 2023. Interviews with candidates are scheduled for mid-July 2023.
For further information related to the scholarship please visit the Scholarship Link, and for submitting your application process via Online Application System, kindly visit the apply button below. You will be directed to PD. Dr. Phil Annina Seiler
