PhD Student in Sustainable Finance and Climate Risk
This fully funded PhD position at ETH Zürich’s Sustainable Finance Group (SustFin), within the Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, offers a unique opportunity to conduct pioneering research at the intersection of finance, climate risk, and corporate strategy. The project is jointly supervised by Assistant Professor Thomas Giroux (Chair of Sustainable Finance, ETH Zurich) and Senior Researcher Chiara Colesanti Senni (Finance department, University of Zurich), providing dedicated mentorship and access to a vibrant academic community. The research agenda focuses on two interconnected themes: (1) evaluating the quality and market perception of corporate climate transition plans, including their implications for decarbonization and asset pricing, and (2) quantifying the financial impacts of physical climate and nature risks on corporate operations using advanced methodologies such as scenario analysis and satellite data. The successful candidate will engage in independent research, leveraging large datasets and econometric techniques to model corporate vulnerability to climate hazards and inform investment decisions. Applicants should have a strong quantitative background, with a Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, Environmental Science, Data Science, or a related field, and proficiency in statistical software (Python, R). Experience with econometrics, geospatial analysis, and large datasets is highly valued. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits for four years, access to extensive datasets and analytical tools, and opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation. ETH Zürich is committed to diversity, sustainability, and providing an inclusive research environment. The position is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and remote work from outside Switzerland is not permitted. Applications are open until November 7th, 2025, and must be submitted online with a cover letter, CV, transcripts, research proposal, and referee contacts. For questions, contact Mrs Ricarda Wellauer at [email protected] (no applications via email). Join ETH Zürich in shaping the future of sustainable finance and climate risk management at one of the world’s leading universities for science and technology.
