UZH: New professor for journalism science

Currently, Hargittai, who holds U.S. and Hungarian citizenship, is a professor at Northwestern University in Evanston, USA. She studied sociology and received her doctorate from Princeton University in 2003, the University of Zurich (UZH) announced Tuesday. Hargittai's interests include sociologically oriented inequality research. For example, she has investigated the connections between the use of digital information technology and social status. In Zurich, she will address the topics of media use, media reality and media effects primarily from a media sociological perspective. Hargittai enjoys international esteem and is also present in international media as an expert, according to the statement. Hargittai gained experience of the Swiss media landscape during her studies in Geneva and as a visiting professor in St. Gallen.

Appeal proceedings stopped

The search for a successor to Bonfadelli dragged on for several years. The appointment process was put on hold in March 2013 because of "massive hostility," according to Andreas Fischer, the university rector at the time. The Tages-Anzeiger had previously accused that only German candidates had been invited to the appointment lectures. This was despite the fact that it was clear from the job advertisement "that a Swiss candidate would almost certainly be suitable for the vacancy.

Swiss researcher for another professorship

So although a US and Hungarian national is now taking over from Bonfadelli, a Swiss is nevertheless also to have a go. UZH would like to appoint Thomas Friemel, who currently teaches at the university, as an addition to another professorship for media use and media effects. Friemel has received a corresponding call to take on a professorship at UZH, according to the statement. Among other things, he will conduct research on the use and impact of Swiss media and provide services to Swiss society in the area of campaign research. (SDA)