PhD Student Position in Climate Extremes and Migration Research ETH Zürich in Switzerland

The Public Policy Group and the Immigration Policy Lab at ETH Zürich are seeking a PhD student for a research project at the intersection of climate extremes and migration. This position is embedded within the NCCR CLIM+ research program, a major Swiss initiative focused on climate extremes and societal resilience. The successful candidate will join a collaborative, interdisciplinary team using quantitative social science methods to study migration and public policy.

The PhD project aims to provide causal evidence on how climate extremes influence migration, including asylum seeking, refugee movements, and labor migration. A core component involves combining global migration data with high-resolution climate-extremes data and applying credible identification strategies. The candidate will also have the opportunity to develop independent research topics aligned with the missions of the Immigration Policy Lab and NCCR CLIM+.

The position is based in the team of Dr. Dominik Hangartner at ETH Zürich, with opportunities for collaboration across the NCCR CLIM+ network. In addition to research, the role includes minor administrative and teaching responsibilities (10% of time). ETH Zürich offers a highly collaborative work environment, career mentoring, salary and pension benefits according to ETH standards, and a research and travel allowance.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in a relevant social science discipline (Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Data Science, Computational Social Science, or related fields), strong quantitative training, proficiency in statistical programming (preferably R), and experience with geospatial data. Interest or experience in migration, forced displacement, asylum processes, climate change, and related topics is expected. Excellent English proficiency and writing skills are required, along with the ability to collaborate effectively and an interest in transdisciplinary research.

ETH Zürich values diversity, sustainability, and an inclusive culture. Applications must be submitted online via the ETH Zurich application portal. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, a writing sample (such as a Master’s thesis), and two confidential letters of recommendation. The review of applications begins June 1, 2026 and continues until the position is filled. For technical issues, contact [email protected]. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Philip Grech ([email protected]), but no applications via email will be considered.

ETH Zürich is a world-leading university specializing in science and technology, renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to sustainability and diversity. The university provides a stimulating environment for independent thinking and academic excellence, with connections across Europe and globally.