PhD Student in Agricultural Economics in Zürich

80%-100%, Zurich, temporary

Research and teaching of the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group, led by Prof. Dr. Robert Finger, is at the interface of agricultural sciences and economics. The group is member of two departments at ETH Zurich: The Department of Management Technology and Economics (D-MTEC) as well as the Department for Environmental System Science (D-USYS). Our teaching is mainly in the Bachelor and Master of the «Agricultural Science» program of ETH Zurich. Our research contributes to more sustainable and resilient farming systems in Europe by focussing on agricultural policy design and evaluation as well as agricultural risk management.

We are looking for a PhD student with a background in agricultural economics. The successful candidate will conduct research on farmers’ pest management decisions in Switzerland with a focus on the role of production, market and institutional risks and farmers’ risk preferences. The PhD student is going to work with various existing datasets on farmers’ pest prevention and pesticide application decisions, e.g. from previously conducted surveys and census data.

We are offering a full-time position with a competitive salary in a dynamic research team and an excellent research and teaching environment. Salary and social benefits are provided according to . The starting date is upon availability and the position is scheduled for 4 years. You will work in an environment allowing you to develop your professional skills and a strong research record.

The successful candidate will have a Master degree (or will be close to completion), strong analytical skills and a background in agricultural economics and econometrics. Good conduct in German or French is a plus. The starting date is flexible, but preferably in December 2020.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.