PhD Student in Public Economics / PhD Student in Public Economics

PhD Student Position in Public Economics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is the premier institute for applied research in economics in Switzerland. KOF conducts rigorous and independent research on the Swiss and international economy, addressing structural and economic policy issues of significant social relevance.

Job Description

The PhD position is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF) through the project "The Economics of Inheritance and Inter-Vivos Gifts." This project is led by Dr. Isabel Z. Martínez at ETH and Prof. Marius Brülhart at the University of Lausanne, with contributions from Aurélien Eyquem and Enrico Rubolino as associated researchers.

This project will explore critical questions related to inheritance flows, inter-vivos gifts, bequest motives, and taxation. As a PhD candidate, you will engage in all phases of the research process, including data cleaning, analyses, visualizing results, and drafting a final research paper.

The position will be based at the KOF Institute at ETH Zurich. Throughout your PhD, you will be well-integrated into institutional activities and participate in regular team meetings, working closely with project leaders and fellow team members. The goal of your work is to produce high-quality research that contributes to academic publications. This position is intended for a duration of four years, with an optimal starting date of September 2026.

Profile

We are seeking an ideal candidate who:

• Is passionate about research that addresses real-world problems. You have completed your degree with excellent grades, showcasing your potential to conduct high-quality research with meticulous attention to detail, aiming for a positive impact through your work.
• Excels in quantitative reasoning. You possess rigorous training in statistics and causal inference, with strong proficiency in Stata. You understand the implications of data and have a demonstrated interest in applied econometrics.
• Holds a Master’s degree in Economics at the time of appointment, with significant interest in public economics, inequality, taxation, and labor economics.
• Has exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills. You enjoy collaboration, have a compelling writing style in English, and effectively use visualizations to convey statistical insights. Knowledge of German and/or French is advantageous.

We value and strive to enhance diversity within our team and encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

Workplace

At ETH Zurich, you will be part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact through research and collaboration.

We Offer

• Your role will have a significant impact: Join ETH Zurich, an institution that supports your professional growth while contributing positively to society.
• Enjoy a variety of benefits including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, access to a wide range of sports activities through ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture that fosters equality of opportunity and values diversity. We maintain a work and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to discover how we cultivate a fair and open environment conducive to growth and success. Sustainability is a core value, and we are committed to working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

Apply online using the form below.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among the leading universities globally, specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the active transfer of new knowledge to society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide to collaboratively develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.