The University of Bonn, in collaboration with the University of Cologne, is offering a PhD position focused on land-use transitions and livelihoods in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. This opportunity is part of the CRC-TRR 228 "Future Rural Africa" project, specifically Project B01 "Invasive Futures: Land-use transitions." The research aims to causally identify how livelihood choices affect household welfare resilience, examine differences based on household characteristics and external conditions, and investigate the role of aspirations in livelihood choices. The project also explores land-use transitions, invasive species management, soil fertility, livelihood mobility, and both economic and ecological resilience.

The successful candidate will plan and conduct the third wave of a household survey in rural Kenya, focusing on aspirations and livelihoods amid invasive plant species. They will also contribute to a four-country household survey on future-making in rural Africa, shape research with their own ideas, engage with a multidisciplinary research team, present results at international conferences, and publish peer-reviewed articles.

Applicants must have a Master's degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field, with strong core economics training and demonstrated outstanding academic performance. Depth in econometric methods and expertise in causal identification methods are required, and experience in primary data collection is ideal. Excellent English communication skills, enthusiasm, open-mindedness, team spirit, and strong interpersonal skills are essential.

The position is funded at 70% TV-L E13 (German Federal pay scale) for 3 years and 9 months, offering a competitive salary and a stimulating international research environment. The research setting is multidisciplinary, with a focus on African social-ecological transformation and empirical research in Kenya. The application deadline is January 18, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the University of Bonn job opportunities page and search for the CRC-TRR 228 PhD student position (Position ID: 2025/289).