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 leading institution for applied research in economics in Switzerland. KOF conducts rigorous and independent research on both the Swiss and international economies, tackling structural and economic policy issues that are socially relevant.

Job Description

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

The project will explore critical questions related to inheritance flows, inter-vivos gifts, bequest motives, and taxation. You will be engaged in all stages of research, including data cleaning, analysis, result visualization, and drafting a final research paper.

The position will be based at the KOF Institute at ETH Zurich. Throughout your PhD journey, you will be well-integrated into institutional activities and participate in regular team meetings. You will collaborate closely with project leaders and other team members, with a shared objective of producing high-quality research that contributes to academic publications. The position is intended for a duration of 4 years, with an optimal starting date of September 2026.

Profile

Our ideal candidate possesses the following qualities:

• Passion for impactful research: You have completed your degree with excellent grades and exhibit the potential to conduct high-quality research while being detail-oriented. You are motivated to make a positive impact through your research.
• Strong quantitative skills: You have rigorous training in statistics, particularly in causal inference, and are proficient in Stata. You understand the limitations and capabilities of data and have a demonstrated interest in applied econometrics.
• Educational background: You hold a Master's degree in Economics at the time of appointment with a strong interest in public economics, inequality, taxation, and labor economics.
• Effective communication abilities: You exhibit excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills. You enjoy collaborating with others and can convey statistical insights effectively, employing compelling visualizations. Knowledge of German and/or French is a plus, though not mandatory.

We are committed to maintaining and expanding our diversity, and we encourage applications from individuals of underrepresented groups.

Workplace

ETH Zurich fosters a collaborative and innovative atmosphere that promotes excellence and diversity. As part of our commitment to create a supportive work environment, we offer various benefits to enhance your experience.

We Offer

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development as a researcher but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• Numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car-sharing options, a wide range of sports activities provided by ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture where equality of opportunity and respect for the rights and dignity of all staff and students are paramount. For more information on our commitment to diversity and equal opportunities, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is a core value, and we are continuously working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We!

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include:

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

Please note that 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 exceptional education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university fosters independent thinking and an inspiring environment that encourages excellence. Located in the heart of Europe while forging connections across the globe, we collaborate to develop solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.