The Erasmus School of Economics (ESE) at Erasmus University Rotterdam is offering a full-time PhD position in the Strategy Economics research group, starting September 1, 2026. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of strategy, innovation, and entrepreneurship, with a strong emphasis on economics and quantitative empirical analysis. The research group is renowned for its contributions to theory-based empirical research on the organisation of firms, industries, and markets, and has a robust publication record in leading international journals.

The PhD project will focus on applying economic theories such as real options theory and signalling theory to strategic topics including (but not limited to) strategic (re)positioning of firms, R&D collaboration, startup acquisition, and startup wage setting. The work will be primarily empirical, leveraging modern micro-econometric methods and large-scale datasets, including administrative data. The exact research topic will be determined collaboratively between the successful candidate and the supervisors, Dr. Jolanda Hessels and Prof. Dr. Enrico Pennings.

As a PhD student, you will join a vibrant, internationally oriented team within the Department of Applied Economics. You will have the option to affiliate with either the Erasmus Research Institute of Management (ERIM) or the Tinbergen Institute, depending on your research interests. The program aims for candidates to produce at least three academic papers as part of a cumulative PhD thesis, targeting submission to top journals in economics and related fields.

Employment conditions are highly competitive, with a gross monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881 (full-time, 38 hours), 41 days of paid leave, 8% holiday pay, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package including pension contributions, insurance discounts, and support for travel and home internet. International candidates may be eligible for the Dutch 30%-ruling tax benefit and receive assistance for partner employment through the Dual Career Programme. The initial contract is for 18 months, with the PhD track lasting 3 years (for MPhil/Research Master holders) or 4 years (for MSc graduates).

Eligibility requirements include a preferred MPhil or Research Master’s degree in Economics or Econometrics, or an MSc/MA degree with the obligation to complete one year of graduate school courses. Applicants must demonstrate excellent academic performance, strong motivation for research, and advanced skills in quantitative empirical analysis. A valid GRE General Test (all sections) is mandatory, with a minimum quantitative score of 160 and successful candidates typically scoring in the top 10%. English proficiency must be proven by either full English-language university education or high scores on TOEFL iBT (≥100) or IELTS (≥7.5). Two academic reference letters and a CV are required.

The application deadline is January 31, 2026. Applications should be submitted via the Erasmus University Rotterdam website, including all required documents. The selection process involves review by supervisors and recruitment committees, and may include interviews. The university welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and identities, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.

For further information, contact Dr. Jolanda Hessels ([email protected]) or Prof. Dr. Enrico Pennings ([email protected]). For application procedure queries, reach out to Lindsey Pijpers (PhD Officer) at [email protected]. Reference letters should be sent to [email protected].

For more details and to apply, visit: PhD Strategy Economics Vacancy.