Student Assistant / Student Assistant

Student Assistant at KOF Swiss Economic Institute (Inequality and Public Economics)

20%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term

The section on Inequality and Public Economics at KOF Swiss Economic Institute is looking for a Student Assistant (30%).

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is the leading institute for applied research in economics in Switzerland. KOF fosters a strong collaborative environment that encourages exchanges between research and administrative staff at various levels and functions. We are committed to rigorous, applied research on policy-relevant topics with a connection to Switzerland.

Job Description

You will work on an ongoing research project focused on intergenerational mobility in Switzerland, addressing questions of social mobility across multiple dimensions. This project examines income mobility and related outcomes across generations, with a special focus on gender differences, career trajectories, and perceptions regarding intergenerational mobility. The project is led by Dr. Isabel Z. Martínez and is based on rich administrative and survey data from Switzerland.

The position offers the opportunity to gain insight into rigorous empirical research and to actively contribute to the day-to-day operations of a research team.

Your Tasks Include:

• Support in general research activities related to intergenerational mobility in Switzerland
• Analyzing data primarily using the statistical software Stata
• Conducting cluster analysis in Python or R
• Conducting literature searches and summarizing relevant academic research
• Assisting with the design, implementation, and evaluation of internal surveys

The preferred starting date for this position is March 2026, with some flexibility for a later starting date.

Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated team member who is eager to gain insight into applied empirical research.

Ideal candidates should possess:

• Strong interest in applied microeconomic research, particularly in inequality and intergenerational mobility in Switzerland
• Completed bachelor’s degree (or close to completion) or ongoing master’s degree in economics or another quantitative social science, with substantial coursework or formal training in data science/econometrics
• Basic knowledge of the statistical software package Stata and a strong willingness to further develop methodological skills
• Basic knowledge of Python or R and a demonstrated interest in machine learning methods, particularly concerning cluster analysis
• Fluency and excellent writing skills in English
• Knowledge of German and/or French is an advantage

You must be enrolled at a Swiss University and willing to work on-site at KOF between 1 to 2 days per week (maximum 15 hours per week during the semester). At KOF, working time is typically managed flexibly, allowing you to balance study commitments while coordinating tasks with the research staff. During the semester break, it is possible to work up to 41 hours per week.

Workplace

Our workplace is designed for collaboration, fostering an environment conducive to research and innovative economic solutions.

We Offer

• A highly collaborative work environment: you will work closely with the project team
• A chance to make an impact: become part of ETH Zurich, which supports your professional development and contributes to positive societal change
• Numerous benefits including public transport season tickets and car sharing, a variety of sports activities through ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension benefits

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, encourages equality of opportunity, and nurtures an environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. To learn more about our commitment to a fair and open environment, visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website. Sustainability is also a core value for us, as we continually strive towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Cover letter (short)
• Curriculum vitae
• Transcript of records of studies up to date or graduation records
• An estimation of your ability and skills separately for Stata, Python, and R on a scale from 1 (beginner) to 5 (proficient)
• At least two writing samples (e.g., a semester, seminar, or Bachelor’s thesis)

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Please submit your application by February 20, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

Further information about KOF Swiss Economic Institute can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position (no applications) should be directed to KOF HR (hr@kof.ethz.ch).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is among the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our exceptional education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge to society. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries thrive at our university, which fosters independent thinking in an environment that promotes excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections worldwide while collaboratively addressing today’s and tomorrow's global challenges.