Research at ICST is broad in scope, combining scientific and artistic research topics and methods. The pre-PhD program EARS at ICST provides an inspiring environment in which to develop a practice-based research project, with the goal of pursuing a doctoral degree in artistic research.
Within the EARS program, participants are expected to realize a pilot project. Its aim is to further specify the research topic, methods and output formats. Participants will receive individual mentoring from one of the professors at ICST as their main mentor (go to main mentors through “ICST expertise areas”) and further methodological support according to the project’s needs (go to ICST expertise areas). Participants should, however, be able to conduct their projects autonomously.
The outcome is a project presentation and a research plan ready for submission to a doctoral program in February of 2027. Note that no ECTS credit points will be awarded and that admission into a PhD cooperation program cannot be guaranteed.
Being exposed to peer reviews, opening one’s practice, and analyzing shared experiences are in the core of artistic research. To foster a sharing culture, the EARS program encourages participants to develop forms of peer collaboration throughout the year. With the support of ZHdK Associate Researcher Jens Badura, participants will collectively conceive and plan the presentation and exchange formats for the two internal colloquia at ICST.
Other activities include participating in colloquia and workshops (intern or extern) and observing ongoing projects at ICST and ZHdK. There is no tuition fee. The ICST will cover basic infrastructural support and travel costs for up to three trips to Zurich and accommodation for ten nights. Required presence at ZHdK includes EARS meetings and colloquia (see "Important dates and required presence at ZHdK" below) as well as individual mentoring sessions. Mentoring can be partly arranged online.