PhD in Agricultural Economics and Policy on Climate Change Mitigation in Swiss Agriculture ETH Zürich in Switzerland

ETH Zürich’s Agricultural Economics and Policy Group, led by Professor Robert Finger, is recruiting a doctoral (PhD) student for research on the economics and policy of climate change mitigation in Swiss agriculture.

The position is part of the SWEET ACHIEVE project / “Pathways to a Net-Zero Target for Hard-to-Abate Swiss Emissions,” a large collaborative initiative focused on net-zero strategies for Switzerland and policy recommendations for the agri-food system. The doctoral researcher will work on the economic, policy, and behavioural dimensions of mitigation in Swiss agriculture.

Research tasks include conducting a choice experiment with farmers, analysing survey and secondary data, testing the effectiveness and efficiency of policy instruments, and investigating farmers’ behaviour and management decisions in the context of climate change mitigation. The role combines data collection, data analysis, interaction with farmers and stakeholders, and economic theory.

Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree (or near completion) in Agricultural Economics or a related discipline, strong analytical and writing skills, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment. Because the project involves survey and experiment work with Swiss farmers, C1 proficiency in German or French is required.

Funding: fully funded, full-time, fixed-term PhD position for four years, with salary according to ETH standards and social benefits.

Application window: the preferred start date is in the last quarter of 2026 (October–December 2026). The application deadline is 2026-06-26.

How to apply: submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV, contact details of two referees, and transcripts of academic records via the ETH Zurich online application portal only. Applications by email or post will not be considered.