Doctoral Student in Agricultural Economics and Policy Group

Doctoral Student in the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Agricultural Economics and Policy Group led by Robert Finger is seeking a motivated doctoral (PhD) student with a background in agricultural economics to study the economics and policy of climate change mitigation in Swiss agriculture. This 4-year position is funded through the project "Pathways to a Net-Zero Target for Hard-to-Abate Swiss Emissions."

Project Background

The ACHIEVE project unites 29 member entities and 27 collaboration partners from research, industry, and the public sector. Together, we work alongside stakeholders from civil society, politics, and industry to develop net-zero strategies for Switzerland and recommend a supportive policy framework. The Agricultural Economics and Policy Group leads a specific work package within ACHIEVE focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Swiss agri-food systems.

The doctoral student will concentrate on the economic, policy, and behavioral aspects of climate change mitigation in Swiss agriculture. The role includes conducting a choice experiment with farmers, analyzing survey and secondary data, evaluating the efficacy and efficiency of diverse policy instruments, and examining farmers' behaviors and management decisions regarding climate change mitigation. This position will combine data collection and analysis with farmer and stakeholder interaction, reinforced by economic theory. Proficiency (C1) in German or French is required due to the nature of the interaction involved. The selected candidate will collaborate with other doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers within the project, as well as in our group, under the supervision of Robert Finger. The duration of the doctorate is fixed at four years.

Job Description

• Conduct a survey and a choice experiment.
• Analyze survey and secondary data.
• Engage with farmers and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other researchers in the project and within our group.
• Supervise master’s and bachelor’s students.
• Complete PhD-level courses relevant to your project (18 ECTS).
• This is a full-time position with a start date in the last quarter of 2026.
• The doctoral program is scheduled and financed for four years.

Profile

• Master's degree (or nearing completion) in Agricultural Economics or a related discipline.
• Strong analytical and writing skills, with the ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Proficiency (C1) in German or French is required.

Workplace

Join a dynamic research group dedicated to impactful solutions in agri-food systems.

We Offer

• A productive, welcoming, and friendly working environment.
• Opportunities for PhD-level courses and continuous training.
• Highly supportive and personalized mentoring and guidance.
• Competitive salary according to ETH standards (fully funded, full-time, fixed-term position for four years), along with social benefits.
• An interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team of talents in a stimulating and collaborative research setting.
• Strong connections with academic partners and stakeholders in the agri-food system.
• Support for career development in academia, industry, or administration.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, celebrate diversity, and create a respectful working and learning environment for all staff and students. For more information, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core value, and we are dedicated to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your application. Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries make our university a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we are committed to developing solutions that address the global challenges of today and tomorrow.