The ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship 2026 in Switzerland offers fully funded positions in applied macroeconomics and political economy at the KOF Swiss Economic Institute. Doctoral researchers will develop dissertations on topics like globalization, tax competition, and political institutions using modern econometric methods.
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education and cutting-edge research. The KOF Swiss Economic Institute is Switzerland’s leading academic institute for applied economic research, providing independent data and analysis for policy and business.
ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship Benefits
- Opportunity to pursue a PhD at ETH Zurich and KOF Swiss Economic Institute
- Engaging and collaborative research environment
- Access to a broad community of economic researchers
- Exchange ideas with colleagues across different areas of economics
- Participate in seminars, workshops and conferences in Zurich and beyond
- Opportunities to engage with international visitors and present research
- Internationally competitive employment conditions
- Negotiable starting date
- Position initially offered for 18 months with prospect of extension for 4-5 years subject to satisfactory progress
- Gross salary determined according to ETH Zurich regulations
ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Master’s degree in Economics or a closely related field, completed by the time the position begins
- Interest in empirical research addressing relevant economic and public-policy questions
- Interest in applied macroeconomics, international economics, public finance and/or political economy
- Sound foundation in econometrics, statistics and quantitative analysis
- Experience with at least one statistical programming language (Stata, R or Python) and openness to learning additional tools
- Ability to communicate ideas clearly in written and spoken English
- Interest in contributing to a collaborative research environment while developing ability to plan and conduct own research
- Applicants with quantitative background in statistics, data science, political science, public policy or finance are welcome if they have sufficient training in economics
- Knowledge of German is welcome but not required
Required Documents
- Letter of motivation Curriculum Vitae (CV) (without a photo)
- Academic writing sample
- Complete academic transcripts
- Copies of diplomas and certificates
- Contact details of 2–3 referee
How to Apply for ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship
- Submit online application through the online application portal
- Include a letter of motivation outlining research interests and their connection to applied macroeconomics, political economy and/or international taxation
- Include a curriculum vitae without a photograph
- Include a writing sample (Master’s thesis, thesis chapter, term paper or other academic research paper)
- Include a complete academic record listing undergraduate and graduate courses and grades
- Include copies of relevant diplomas and certificates
- Include contact information for two or three potential referees
- Applications must be submitted by 30 September 2026 at the latest
- Applications via email or postal services will not be considered
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
The ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship offers fully funded positions in applied macroeconomics and political economy at the KOF Swiss Economic Institute. Doctoral researchers develop dissertations on topics like globalization, tax competition, and political institutions using modern econometric methods.
Who is eligible for the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Economics or a closely related field, a sound foundation in econometrics and statistics, experience with a statistical programming language, and strong English communication skills. Interest in empirical research and policy-relevant questions is essential.
What are the benefits of the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
Benefits include an internationally competitive salary according to ETH Zurich regulations, a collaborative research environment, access to seminars and conferences, opportunities to present research, and a negotiable starting date. The position is initially for 18 months with extension up to 4-5 years.
What is the deadline for the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
The deadline for applications is 30 September 2026. Applications must be submitted through the online application portal. Late or email applications will not be considered.
How do I apply for the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
Apply online through the official application portal. Include a motivation letter, CV without photo, writing sample, academic records, diplomas, and contact details for two or three referees. Applications by email or post are not accepted.
What research topics are covered by the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
Topics include globalization and fiscal outcomes, multinational firms and tax incentives, political institutions and economic policy, business cycles, forecasting, monetary policy, migration, corruption, and other policy-relevant questions in applied macroeconomics and political economy.
Where is the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship based?
The positions are based at the KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich, located at Leonhardstrasse 21, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland. The workplace is in Zurich.
Is the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the scholarship is fully funded. It offers internationally competitive employment conditions with a gross salary determined according to ETH Zurich regulations. The position is intended to lead to a doctoral degree from ETH Zurich.
Can international students apply for the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship?
Yes, international students are welcome. The position requires strong English communication skills. Knowledge of German is welcome but not required. ETH Zurich values diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
What documents are required for the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship application?
Required documents include a motivation letter, CV without photo, writing sample (e.g., Master’s thesis), complete academic records, copies of diplomas and certificates, and contact information for two or three referees. All documents must be submitted online.
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