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 Switzerland's premier institute for applied research in economics. KOF engages in rigorous and independent research addressing both Swiss and international economic issues, tackling structural and economic policy questions of social relevance.

Job Description

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

This project will explore topics such as inheritance flows, inter-vivos gifts, bequest motives, and taxation. As a PhD student, you will participate in all stages of research, including data cleaning, analysis, result visualization, and drafting a final research paper.

The position is based at the KOF Institute at ETH Zurich. You will be integrated into institutional activities, participating in regular team meetings while collaborating closely with project leaders and team members. The aim is to produce high-quality research that may lead to academic publications. The position is available for a duration of four years, with an optimal starting date of September 2026.

Profile

We are seeking candidates who:

• Are passionate about research addressing real-world problems. You have completed your degree with excellent grades and demonstrate the potential to conduct high-quality research with meticulous attention to detail, aiming for a positive impact.
• Exhibit strong quantitative reasoning skills. You have rigorous training in statistics, particularly in causal inference, and a solid command of Stata. You are aware of the capabilities and limitations of data and possess a keen interest in applied econometrics.
• Hold a Master's degree in Economics at the time of appointment, with a strong interest in public economics, inequality, taxation, and labor economics.
• Possess excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills. You thrive in collaborative environments, have a compelling writing style in English, and enjoy using effective visualizations to relay statistical insights. Knowledge of German and/or French is a notable advantage, although not a requirement.

We are committed to enhancing diversity within our team and strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

Workplace

You will be based at the KOF Swiss Economic Institute, which fosters a stimulating research environment at ETH Zurich.

What We Offer

• Your role will have a meaningful impact: Join ETH Zurich, which is dedicated to supporting your professional development and contributing positively to society.
• Enjoy a range of benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, access to a variety of sports through ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension plans.

Valuing Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equal opportunities, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website for more information on how we create a fair and supportive environment for growth. Sustainability is a key value, and we are actively working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below with the following documents:

• Cover letter including a brief description of your research interests
• Curriculum vitae (no photo)
• Academic writing sample (e.g., Master's thesis or term paper)
• Complete academic record of undergraduate and graduate courses and grades
• Copies of certificates
• Contact information for two potential referees

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. We will commence reviewing applications after February 15th, 2026.

For more information about the KOF Swiss Economic Institute, please visit our website. For questions regarding the position, please contact KOF HR Services at hr@kof.ethz.ch (please do not send applications to this email).

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its exceptional education, cutting-edge research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, fostering independent thinking and inspiring excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.