PhD Positions in Economics at University of Mannheim (GESS): Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics University of Mannheim in Germany

The Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences (GESS) at the University of Mannheim is offering up to 25 fully funded PhD positions in Economics for the 2026 intake. This internationally competitive doctoral program is designed for highly qualified students with strong quantitative skills and a passion for research in economics. The program covers core areas such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Econometrics, and provides a structured curriculum with skills courses in teaching, academic writing, and presenting.

Students benefit from a stimulating research environment, opportunities for research stays at partner universities worldwide (including Yale University and members of the European Network for Training in Economic Research), and access to major databases and excellent libraries. The program is conducted entirely in English and offers modern offices and equipment. Graduates have an excellent track record of placements in top academic institutions and research organizations globally.

All admitted students receive guaranteed funding for five years, which may include a scholarship for the first two years and research assistant positions thereafter, contingent on academic progress. There are no tuition fees, as the program is government funded. The application deadline is March 31, 2026, with an early application deadline on January 15, 2026. Applications must be submitted online via the GESS portal; mailed applications are not accepted.

Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in economics or a related quantitative field (such as mathematics or engineering). Required application materials include GRE General Test scores (no minimum score, not older than two years, and not the at-home version), two letters of recommendation from faculty, a motivation letter (in English, max 500 words), transcripts (with translations if not in English or German), and a writing sample in English or German. The program welcomes international applicants, with about 40% of the student body coming from outside Germany.

For more information and to apply, visit the University of Mannheim GESS website. This is a unique opportunity to join a leading doctoral program in economics and advance your research career in a vibrant academic community.