The Development Economics Group (ETH-DEC) at ETH Zurich is offering a PostDoc position in Development Economics: 60% own research & 40% research management (manage, support and contribute to ongoing research projects of the group).

The starting date is the 1st of September 2025. The position is for one year, renewable for one additional year. 

Our research group: We conduct research in empirical development economics, with ongoing research projects on global inequalities, financing for development, health and population economics, technologies for poverty reduction, sustainable resource extraction, and evidence-informed policymaking. Please consult www.dec.ethz.ch for an overview of ongoing research projects. 

Our team: We are an international team of highly dedicated economists and data scientists interested in analyzing global inequalities and contributing to global development solutions. Our research group is closely linked to NADEL, a multidisciplinary team educating future decision-makers for global cooperation and development, and ETH4D which links researchers with civil society, NGOs, governments, and industry to develop and scale innovations for the global population.

Our values: We value open discourse, diversity, and empathy. We are curious about new approaches to research, enjoy interdisciplinary research, and encourage public service.

On the one hand, the candidate should conduct their own high-quality research linked to the research of the group. In addition, the candidate will be responsible for mentoring 1-2 PhDs and supporting ongoing and future research projects (data analysis, writing, management, proposal writing, communication). The candidate will work closely with Prof. Isabel Günther. Teaching is encouraged but not mandatory.

Candidates have a doctorate in economics, excellent prospects for publications, and very strong quantitative and statistical software skills. They have worked on questions related to poverty/inequality/development in European or African countries during their PhD. Candidates are interested in the research fields of our group. Experience with RCTs and primary data collection is a plus, but not required. Fluency in English is mandatory. Fluency in French or German is a plus, but not required.

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

We look forward to receiving your application by 30th of May 2025. 

To apply, please submit your complete personal records (Cover Letter, CV, Academic Transcripts, and two publications or working papers).

In addition, candidates should ask for one or two academic reference letters to be sent directly to [email protected] by 5th of June 2025. Please note: The letters need to be sent directly from the referees to Nicolas Büttner, NOT by the applicants themselves.

Interviews will take place at the beginning of July 2025.

ETH Postdoc salaries can be found here: Salary | ETH Zurich.

For further information, please consult our website or contact Dr. Nicolas Büttner ([email protected]), who currently holds this position.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

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.