PhD Program in Science and Policy

The PhD Program in Science and Policy is unique in Switzerland. It combines life, environmental, earth, agricultural, engineering, energy or food sciences with the development of skills and competencies for the science-policy dialogue and interface.

Registration (to the PhD Program in Science and Policy)

The PhD Program Flyer (PDF, 2 MB)

Procedures and Important Documents

Curriculum for Science and Policy

Course Catalogue Specific for Science and Policy

Science and Policy Workbooks

Terms and Conditions for Courses

Blog – Engaging in a Science and Policy Dialogue

PhD Program Guidelines (PDF, 615 KB)

Scientists have an important role to play in policymaking - but how can they make sure their research has an impact?

The world is changing. We face critical challenges that need to be overcome to preserve our livelihood and ensure a sustainable future for all. This requires reliable data and scientific evidence to inform policymaking.

Scientists need to engage with policymakers and other stakeholders to assure their work is relevant, and to have their work incorporated into policy and societal debates. The PhD Program in Science and Policy provides participants with the tools and skills they need to bridge science and policymaking.

Our program was built for individuals in the early stages of their scientific career (PhD or Postdoc). It focuses on developing the necessary competencies and skills in individuals for engaging in science-policy dialogue, or to facilitate a a future career in the field of policymaking. Careers in policymaking could range from those in the federal or local government and administration, or in non-profits, think tanks, private companies or academic institutions.

Join the PhD Program and prepare yourself to make a difference in current policymaking.

This PhD Program of 12 ECTS (ETHZ and UZH) and 18 ECTS (UNIBAS) introduces students through block courses and workshops to theory, tools and skills for interacting at the science-policy interface. Each block course is organized as a series of lectures, tool-oriented workshops, literature studies, and problem-based group work on timely case studies from the science-policy domain. Exchange with external experts, policymakers and politicians provide hands-on experience. Opportunities and expectations for networking are central to the training program. Our program learning objectives are:

• Learn about the policymaking process and the ways to engage with evidence-based research.
• Learn how to translate research findings for policy-relevance.
• Improve your communication of scientific results with policymakers, media and the public.
• Learn to involve different stakeholder groups in a participatory process.
• Build competencies and skills for your transition into a science-policy career.
• Build a science and policy network.

Students in the program will obtain their doctoral degree (in Science) from ETH Zurich (ETHZ), University of Zurich (UZH) or University of Basel (UNIBAS).

The PhD Program is accredited by the ETHZ, UZH and UNIBAS, as well as the Zurich Life Science Graduate School. The PhD Program in Science and Policy will be completed with a joint certification from all three universities as part of the doctoral degree.

"In the research world, it is easy to lose sight of the connection with society and the relevance of our work. The Science and Policy program gave me the opportunity to think outside the box and at the same time prepare myself for future encounters with journalists, politicians and the general public. The diverse range of external and internal lecturers and a very pleasant discussion culture in the events gave me a lot of new food for thought and practice in dealing with socially relevant issues." – Johannes Piotrowski, Science & Policy Alumnus

"The PhD Program in Science and Policy offered ideal theoretical and practical training to complement my PhD work in the lab. I thoroughly enjoyed the perfectly planned, flawlessly executed, and hands-on courses that allowed everyone to expand their knowledge in building political support, scientific communication, and evidence-based policymaking, just to name a few. The atmosphere in the group was always respectful and professional, yet relaxed and fun. Exciting excursions to the Swiss parliament transformed the theory into visible practice. Participating in the PhD program provided me with the skills and confidence to apply as a visiting scholar at the WHO, where I worked on fascinating projects within the ongoing decade of healthy ageing." – Christoph Benner, Science & Policy Alumnus

"As a conservation biologist and environmental scientist, I have always recognized the importance of bridging science and policy. However, it was never a primary focus during my studies. When I discovered this PhD program, I was intrigued by its potential. Through the program, we participated in workshops with specialists in outreach and political engagement, and even visited the Swiss parliament to gain a deeper understanding of the political decision-making process. These experiences clarified the critical connection between science and policy, highlighting the necessity of effectively communicating scientific information to diverse audiences. Beyond discussions, the specialists provided us with invaluable tools to make our scientific research more accessible and impactful. This knowledge and these skills are something I will carry with me throughout my career." - Emily Oliveira, Science and Policy Alumna

“In the course ‘Communicating Science’ I learned to craft compelling messages to different audiences.” – Charlotte Pavageau, Marie Curie Fellow and Science & Policy Alumna

“It’s helpful to understand how my project has a broader societal impact. (…) It’s good to always take a step back and look at larger societal impact, and these workshops definitely helped me frame that.” – Bessie Noll, Marie Curie Fellow and Science & Policy Alumna

“A course like ‘Stakeholder Engagement’ taught me techniques and tools to work with stakeholders in a way that bridges the divide rather than creating new walls.” – Kevin Vega, Science & Policy Alumnus

Dr. Luisa Last (PhD Program Coordinator, psc_phdprogram@ethz.ch)