PhD Position in Development Economics and Agricultural Economics at University of Bonn (Future Rural Africa) University of Bonn in Germany

The University of Bonn is offering a PhD position within the Collaborative Research Center CRC-TRR 228 "Future Rural Africa". This opportunity is specifically targeted at scholars from Kenya interested in studying the impact of livelihood choices on household welfare resilience, with a focus on how household characteristics, external conditions, and aspirations affect these choices. The research is part of Project B01 "Invasive Futures: Land-use transitions" and aims to identify causal relationships affecting land-use transitions, including soil fertility, invasive control, livelihood mobility, and economic/ecological resilience.

The successful candidate will plan and conduct the third wave of a household survey in rural Kenya, emphasizing aspirations and livelihoods in the presence of invasive plant species. The position involves contributing to a multidisciplinary research team, presenting results at international conferences, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Supervision will be provided by Prof. Thomas Heckelei, head of Economic and Agricultural Policy at the University of Bonn.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in economics, agricultural economics, or a related field, with strong skills in econometrics and causal identification. Experience in primary data collection and excellent English communication skills are required. The position offers a stimulating international research environment, career development support, and salary according to the German Federal pay scale (70% TV-L E13).

Applications should be submitted electronically as a single PDF file, including a motivation letter, CV, transcripts, certificates, thesis abstract, and referee contacts, by January 18, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Thomas Heckelei at [email protected].