PhD Position in Applied Macroeconomics
This PhD position at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) offers an exciting opportunity to conduct research in applied macroeconomics, focusing on the macroeconomic effects, transmission channels, and amplifiers of supply shocks, as well as their implications for monetary and fiscal policy. The global economic landscape has become increasingly volatile due to supply-side disruptions, including acute shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts, as well as long-term structural shifts such as digital and green transitions. These supply-side disruptions pose significant challenges for policymakers, often forcing difficult trade-offs between stabilizing inflation and economic activity.
The successful candidate will investigate the role of supply-side disruptions in the macroeconomy, exploring topics such as the propagation of shocks within and across economies, structural features that amplify or buffer macroeconomic impacts, and the distributional effects of supply shocks. There is flexibility to propose alternative research topics within applied macroeconomics. Responsibilities include conducting independent, high-quality academic research culminating in a doctoral dissertation, collaborating with faculty and other PhD students, aiming to publish in leading peer-reviewed journals, presenting at conferences, and actively contributing to the research environment within the Department of Economics and Finance and the TalTech School of Business and Governance. Limited teaching and supervision duties related to the candidate’s expertise are also expected.
Applicants must have a Master’s degree in economics or a closely related field, strong analytical and critical thinking skills, curiosity, creativity, and a genuine interest in macroeconomics, international economics, and monetary or fiscal policy. Strong written and verbal English communication skills, working knowledge of econometrics, motivation, resilience, and experience with quantitative research methods are required. Experience in macroeconomic modelling is beneficial. Applicants should submit an initial research plan outlining a focused research question and methodological approach, which can be further developed after admission.
The position is a 4-year PhD contract, employed as an Early-Stage Researcher in a strong team. TalTech offers a modern research environment, broad multidisciplinary interests, and strong international collaboration. The Department of Economics and Finance conducts research on productivity, investments, export competitiveness, economic integration, governance, contemporary finance, and socio-economic inclusion. All PhD positions are guaranteed a gross income of at least 2300 EUR per month and Estonian national health insurance. Additional benefits include opportunities for conference visits, research stays, and networking with leading universities and policy institutions.
Applications are open from 1 June 2026 to 30 June 2026. For more information about the admission process, visit the PhD Admission homepage. The main supervisor is Assistant Professor Benjamin Beckers from the School of Business and Governance, Department of Economics and Finance.
