The University of Zurich is inviting applications for PhD and Pre-Doctoral (Pre-Doc) positions within a newly funded research project supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation. This project, titled “Parents, Pressure, and Pathways: Experimental Insights on Swiss Educational Transitions,” offers an exciting opportunity for candidates interested in applied economics, education, and policy-relevant research. Project Overview The research project will begin in August 2026 and focuses on key societal and educational challenges in Switzerland. Core research areas include: Educational transitions and student pathways Student well-being and mental health Parental decision-making in education Inequality in children’s opportunities The project applies advanced empirical methods such as: Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) Survey experiments Administrative data analysis The research is closely connected to real-world institutions, including schools and families in Zurich, ensuring direct policy relevance and practical impact. Positions Available The hiring structure is flexible, depending on candidate fit: Two PhD positions, or One PhD position and one Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant position Both roles are primarily research-focused, with minimal teaching responsibilities. PhD Position The PhD candidate will: Contribute to the SNSF-funded research project Develop an independent dissertation in applied economics Work within a collaborative and international research environment Requirements: Strong academic background in economics or a related quantitative field Interest in empirical research Experience with statistical software such as: Stata R Python Strong analytical and research skills German language proficiency is preferred but not required Pre-Doctoral Position The Pre-Doctoral Research Assistant role is ideal for candidates seeking research experience before pursuing a PhD. Key responsibilities include: Data analysis and management Survey implementation Research assistance across project tasks Project coordination and administrative support This role provides close mentorship and may lead to a future PhD opportunity within the research team for outstanding candidates. Research Environment The positions are based at the Chair of Business Economics (Personnel Economics and Economics of Vocational Education) within the Department of Business Administration. The research group operates at the intersection of: Economics of education Labor and personnel economics Applied microeconomics Key features of the environment include: A collaborative and international team A strong focus on high-quality empirical research Opportunities to engage with impactful, policy-relevant work Application Process Applicants must submit their materials in one single PDF file to Nicole Ehrsam. The application should include: A motivation letter A CV, including German proficiency level Academic transcripts A writing sample (if available) Names of two referees Additional requirement: Letters of recommendation must be submitted separately by referees Applicants should clearly indicate whether they are applying for: The PhD position The Pre-Doctoral position Or both Timeline and Start Date Preferred Start Date: 1 August 2026 (flexible) Application Review Begins: 13 April 2026 Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps. Candidate Profile The ideal candidate demonstrates: Genuine motivation and intellectual curiosity Strong interest in applied, policy-relevant research Ability to work independently and collaboratively A commitment to producing high-quality academic work The selection process places strong emphasis on authenticity and fit rather than overly polished applications. Why Apply? This opportunity provides: Hands-on experience in cutting-edge empirical research Direct involvement in a high-impact SNSF-funded project Access to leading academic mentorship A pathway to academic and policy careers in economics Engagement with real-world educational challenges Candidates will gain valuable exposure to research that informs education policy and social outcomes, positioning them for future success in academia or applied research roles. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization seeking for the positions. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.