The Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy and the Department of Anthropology and Sociology (ANSO) are recruiting a

Research Assistant

for the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) funded project:

Images, (In)visibilities, and Work on Appearances

PERIOD OF CONTRACT
1 OCTOBER 2020 – JUNE 30 2021 (with possibility of extension)

ACTIVITY RATE
40%

DEADLINE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS
15 SEPTEMBER 2020

Swiss National Foundation (SNF) Scientific Project: “Images, (In)visibilities, and Work on Appearances” (IMAGEAPP)

This ethnographic project investigates how image-makers in three Indonesian cities (Ambon, Ternate, Makassar) address and redress a crucial dimension of sociopolitical change by making and deploying images: the (partial) invisibility and lack of recognition corresponding to asymmetries of, among others, religion, ethnicity, and race. Understood as part of the work on appearances inherent to sociopolitical transformation, these visual images circulate on social media as photographs, comics, memes, graphic journalism and art, in (digital) archives or as interventions in urban space like street art and graffiti. They are deployed to make marginalized histories visible, eliminate (in)visibilities that foster exclusion, and intervene in the visual environment to enable more equitable and sustainable life worlds.

General description of the position:
The appointed research assistant will work closely with the project’s Principal Investigator, Patricia Spyer, Professor in ANSO and Faculty Affiliate of the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy. S/he is expected to support the PI in carrying out the research agenda and contributing to the research project. Specific tasks include conducting literature searches and reviews, collecting relevant materials, managing and responding to project-related emails, helping to convene and attending project reading sessions, workshops, and meetings. S/he will also maintain and update the project website.

Candidate’s profile
•    MA (or in their second year of the MA) in Anthropology or relevant sub-disciplines/fields and with an interest in visual culture, urban studies, citizenship and belonging
•    Demonstrated ability to carry out research
•    Highly organized and capable of working independently
•    Knowledge and experience with digital technologies and websites.
•    Excellent written and oral communication in English, some familiarity with Indonesian or Malay is an asset (though not required)
•    Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with others

Application procedure
We look forward to receiving your application including 1) a CV 2) letter of motivation 3) two letters of recommendation 4) a writing sample (MA Thesis, research paper, or article published or in preparation)

Informal inquiries and applications are to be sent to: patricia.spyer@graduateinstitute.ch Please cc all messages to democracy@graduateinstitute.ch