PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting and Data Science ETH Zürich in Switzerland

PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting and Data Science at ETH Zurich

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is recruiting a PhD student for its Research Division Macroeconomic Forecasting and Data Science. The position is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and is available immediately, with the start date negotiable. The role sits within one of Switzerland’s leading applied economic research environments and focuses on forecasting the Swiss and international economy using macroeconometric models, indicators, survey data, and modern data science methods.

The successful candidate will contribute to the preparation of KOF’s international economic outlook and quarterly economic forecasts while pursuing an excellent PhD dissertation in applied macroeconomics, macroeconometrics, or economic nowcasting and forecasting. The research agenda includes developing, implementing, and evaluating forecasting and nowcasting models using econometric and machine learning techniques, analysing large-scale macroeconomic and high-frequency datasets, and building reproducible code, data pipelines, and research software.

Applicants should have excellent academic results and be motivated to produce high-quality, policy-relevant research. A Master’s degree in Economics, Econometrics, Data Science, Statistics, or a closely related quantitative field is required or must be completed by the time of appointment. Strong quantitative and programming skills are expected, especially in time series econometrics, forecasting methods, and work with large or real-time datasets. The position also requires excellent communication skills in German and English; good German is a prerequisite, and French or Italian is an advantage.

ETH Zurich offers internationally competitive employment conditions, a dynamic and collaborative research environment, and the opportunity to pursue a high-quality PhD at a globally renowned institution. The appointment is initially for 18 months, with the prospect of extension for the normal four- to five-year duration of the doctorate subject to satisfactory progress. Gross salary will follow ETH Zurich regulations. The university also highlights flexible working arrangements, training and development opportunities, sports activities, childcare, and other staff benefits.

Applications must be submitted online by 15 September 2026. Candidates should provide a motivation letter explaining their interest in a PhD in economic forecasting, a curriculum vitae, writing samples in German or English, a complete academic record with courses and grades, copies of certificates, and contact information for 2–3 potential references. Questions about the position or application process should be directed to ETH Zurich HR Services at hr@kof.ethz.ch. Applications by email or post will not be considered.