Postdoctoral research position in marketing (80%)

We offer a 80% paid Postdoctoral position in marketing starting 1st August 2025. The hired candidate will work on a groundbreaking project on the effect of dark patterns in online shopping environment funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project will seek to understand the variables that condition the effectiveness of dark patterns, evaluate how consumers identify and interpret dark patterns, and implement interventions (consumer strategies and policies) to empower consumers to make shopping decisions that are in line with their objectives. 

Your Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:

• Lead the design and execution of experiments testing interventions to empower users.
• Conduct advanced statistical analyses.
• Develop strategies that reduce consumer vulnerability.
• Publish findings in top-tier academic journals and present at international conferences.
• Engage with policymakers and consumer protection organizations to translate research into impact. 

The successful candidate will work in close relationship with a PhD student, Prof. Valéry Bezençon (supervisor and project co-applicant), Prof. Adrian Holzer (project applicant) and Prof. Sascha Alavi (partner). 

Your Profile

• Recently completed a PhD in marketing, behavioral science, economics, data science, or a related discipline (latest at the start date).
• Expertise in experimental research design.
• Skills in quantitative analysis.
• Theoretical knowledge of consumer behavior in online environments.
• Strong publication potential (as demonstrated by publications or research in revisions).
• Excellent command of English (oral and written). 

We offer excellent conditions

• Salary: 92’363 – 99’817 CHF (~106’800 EUR) for a person employed at 100%
• Project duration: 4 years
• Excellent working environment (university, infrastructure, city, sports and culture offering) 

University background

The University of Neuchâtel has ~4’500 students who benefit from top-level academic trainings with excellent support. It is one of the most international universities in Switzerland, with about 100 nationalities present and a quarter of students coming from abroad. Ideally located between Geneva and Zürich, in the heart of Europe, it is a perfect place to undertake high-level research in an idyllic setting between lake and mountains.

Application procedure and deadline

The application files, containing a statement of interest, a CV, copies of diplomas with grade transcripts, a representative scientific work as a first author (e.g. working paper), GMAT or GRE scores if available, should be uploaded via this application form: https://neuchatel.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5sXmQi0rvbpMkGa

Applications will be processed as they come with a deadline on 30th May 2025.

The University of Neuchâtel provides non-discriminatory working conditions.