PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
We are seeking a PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting to join our team. The position is available immediately and should be filled no later than March 2026.
KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is Switzerland's leading institute for applied economic research. The Research Division of Macroeconomic Forecasting and Data Science analyzes and forecasts the Swiss and international economy, producing KOF's short- and medium-term macroeconomic outlooks. This is achieved using macroeconometric models, indicators, and survey information, combining structural macroeconometric modeling with data science methods for nowcasting, constructing high-frequency indicators, and employing machine learning and time-series econometrics.
Job Description
- Contribute to the preparation of the international economic outlook as part of the quarterly publication of KOF economic forecasts.
- Pursue an excellent PhD dissertation in applied macroeconomics, macroeconometrics, or economic nowcasting/forecasting—ideally on topics relevant to the Swiss and/or international economy.
- Develop and implement new forecasting and nowcasting models, ensuring the maintenance of reproducible code and data pipelines.
Profile
- Possess excellent academic results and a strong motivation to produce high-quality, policy-relevant research.
- Hold (or will have completed by the time of appointment) a Master's degree in Economics, Econometrics, Data Science, Statistics, or a closely related quantitative field.
- Have a solid knowledge of and strong interest in economics and economic policy issues.
- Exhibit excellent quantitative and programming skills, with a strong knowledge of time-series econometrics and forecasting methods or a desire to acquire them.
- Show experience or a strong interest in working with large and/or real-time datasets, nowcasting, and forecasting evaluation.
- Demonstrate excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills.
- Enjoy collaborating with others and possess a compelling writing style in both German and English.
- A good command of German is a prerequisite for this position; knowledge of French or Italian is an asset.
Workplace
Your workplace will be at the KOF Swiss Economic Institute, a dynamic and collaborative research environment within ETH Zurich.
What We Offer
- The starting date for this position is ideally before March 2026, with an initial duration of 18 months and the prospect of further extension, totaling up to six years.
- The opportunity to pursue a high-quality PhD at a renowned institution.
- Working conditions that are internationally competitive.
- A gross salary will be in accordance with the regulations of ETH Zurich.
We Value Diversity and Sustainability
In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, supporting equality of opportunity and nurturing a diverse working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. We are committed to sustainability and actively work towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So Are We.
We look forward to your application. Please 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. Renowned for excellent education, groundbreaking fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, our university attracts over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. It is a place that fosters independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while forging connections globally, we work together to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.