Research Assistant (60%) – IFSAR Institute for Social Work and Spaces, St. Gallen, Switzerland

Summary

The IFSAR Institute for Social Work and Spaces at OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences seeks a part‑time Research Assistant (60%) for up to two years, starting February 1 2027 or by agreement. The role supports interdisciplinary projects in the "Housing and Neighborhoods" and "Growing Up and Education" areas, assisting with project acquisition, data collection, analysis, transfer products, and project management. Candidates must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and be enrolled in or planning to start a Master’s program in Social Work at the St. Gallen campus of Bern University of Applied Sciences, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, or OST. The position offers flexible hours, professional development, and standard Swiss employment benefits.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Social Work
Position Type	Research Assistant
Discipline	Social Work
Research Area	Housing and Neighborhoods; Growing Up and Education
Degree Required	Bachelor's degree in Social Work
Contract Duration	2 years, with option to extend
Deadline	2026-10-13
Employer Address	IFSAR Institute for Social Work and Spaces St. Gallen Campus, Switzerland
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The research assistant will contribute to IFSAR’s interdisciplinary work on housing, neighborhoods, and youth education. Tasks include supporting the acquisition of new research and service projects, participating in ongoing studies through data collection and analysis, creating transfer products such as presentations and publications, conducting research on core thematic areas, and assisting with project management activities like drafting minutes and organizing events within the "Housing and Neighborhoods" focus.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in acquiring new research, development and service projects (e.g., preparing offers and applications)
• Participate in ongoing interdisciplinary projects (e.g., data collection and social‑science data analysis)
• Support creation of transfer products such as presentations, publications, workshops, newspaper articles
• Conduct research on the main thematic areas of work
• Assist with project management tasks (e.g., drafting minutes, organizing events)
• Collaborate in the IFSAR thematic focus "Housing and Neighborhoods"

Required Skills

• Completed Bachelor's degree in Social Work
• Ability to independently acquire specialist knowledge and apply it
• Capability to work in different contexts simultaneously
• High level of personal responsibility and initiative
• Affinity for qualitative and, if applicable, quantitative social research
• Analytical and conceptual skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Interest in socio‑spatial issues related to housing, neighborhoods, and education

Who Should Apply

Applicants who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and are currently enrolled in, or intend to begin, a Master’s program in Social Work at the St. Gallen campus of Bern University of Applied Sciences, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, or OST. The role is also open to those planning to start their Master’s studies in the 2027/2028 academic year or later.

Benefits

• Opportunity for professional and research‑methodology development
• Diverse range of tasks with shaping opportunities
• Modern employment conditions
• Attractive workplace on the St. Gallen campus near the train station
• Flexible working hours
• Holidays
• Pension fund
• Social security
• Continuing education
• Family support
• Fitness & Sport facilities
• Loyalty bonus

About the Employer

OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences is an intercantonal university with campuses in Buchs, Rapperswil‑Jona, and St. Gallen. The IFSAR Institute for Social Work and Spaces, part of the Department of Social Work, focuses on interdisciplinary research and services in housing, neighborhoods, and youth education, offering consulting, continuing education, and teaching at bachelor and master levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is October 13, 2026.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work who are enrolled in or plan to start a Master’s program in Social Work at the St. Gallen campus of Bern University of Applied Sciences, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, or OST.

What is the contract length?

The position is limited to two years with an option to extend.

Where is the workplace located?

IFSAR Institute for Social Work and Spaces, St. Gallen Campus, Switzerland.

Whom should I contact for more information?

Contact Nicola Hilti at [email protected] for focus‑area questions and Peter Büsser for HR inquiries.