PhD Student in Public Economics / PhD Studentess in Public Economics

PhD Student Position in Public Economics

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is the leading institute for applied research in economics in Switzerland. KOF conducts well-founded and independent research on the Swiss and international economy, addressing structural and economic policy issues with 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 Zurich and Prof. Marius Brülhart at the University of Lausanne, with contributions from associated researchers Aurélien Eyquem and Enrico Rubolino from HEC Lausanne and CREST Paris.

This project will investigate questions surrounding inheritance flows, inter-vivos gifts, bequest motives, and taxation. As a PhD candidate, you will be engaged in all stages of research, from data cleaning to analysis, visualizing results, and drafting a final research paper. The role is based at the KOF Institute at ETH Zurich, where you will be integrated into institutional activities and participate in regular team meetings, closely collaborating with project leaders and team members to produce high-quality research aimed at academic publications. The position has a duration of four years, with an optimal starting date of September 2026.

Profile

The ideal candidate for this position:

• Is excited about conducting research that aims to solve real-world problems. You have completed your degree with excellent grades, demonstrating the potential to conduct high-quality research while paying attention to detail. You are motivated by the desire to make a positive impact through your research.
• Exhibits strong quantitative reasoning skills. You have a rigorous statistical training in causal inference and a strong command of Stata, understanding both the capabilities and limitations of data, with a demonstrated interest in applied econometrics.
• Holds a Master’s degree in Economics at the time of appointment. You have a strong interest in public economics, inequality, taxation, and labor economics.
• Possesses excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills. You enjoy collaboration, have a compelling writing style in English, and effectively use visualizations to convey statistical insights. While not required, knowledge of German and/or French would be advantageous.

Moreover, we are committed to maintaining and expanding our diversity, and we encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

Workplace

The position will be based at KOF Institute, ETH Zurich, a hub of innovation and research excellence.

We Offer

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

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich fosters an inclusive culture and promotes equality of opportunity. We cherish diversity and nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about how we ensure a fair and open environment for everyone. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are dedicated to achieving a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

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

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

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is among 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. Our university brings together over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, encouraging independent thinking and inspiring excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide to collaboratively develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s global challenges.