PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting

Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich; Zürich; Vor Ort; CHF 30’000 - 80’000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading Swiss educational institution is seeking a PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting. This role requires a completed Master’s degree and excellent quantitative skills. Candidates will engage in producing high-quality research and developing forecasting models in an inclusive and dynamic environment. The position starts before March 2026, initially for 18 months with a possibility of extension.

Leistungen

Opportunity to pursue a PhD at a renowned institution

Dynamic research environment

Internationally competitive working conditions

Qualifikationen

• Excellent academic results and motivation for high-quality research.
• Completed Master's degree by the appointment time.
• Strong interest in acquiring forecasting skills.

Aufgaben

• Prepare international economic outlook as part of KOF forecasts.
• Pursue an excellent PhD dissertation.
• Develop and implement forecasting models.

Kenntnisse

Quantitative and programming skills

Knowledge of time-series econometrics

Interest in economics and economic policy

Verbal and written communication skills

Knowledge of German

Interest in working with large datasets

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in Economics, Econometrics, Data Science, Statistics

Jobbeschreibung

PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting

We are looking for a PhD Student in Macroeconomic Forecasting. The position is available immediately and should be filled no later than March 2026.

KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is Switzerland’s leading institute for applied economic research. The Research Division Macroeconomic Forecasting and Data Science analyses and forecasts the Swiss and international economy and produces KOF’s short- and medium-term macroeconomic outlooks using macroeconometric models, indicators and survey information. The division combines structural macroeconometric modelling with data‑science methods for nowcasting, high‑frequency indicators construction, machine learning, time‑series econometrics and maintains the data and tools that feed the regular KOF macroeconomic forecasts.

• Participate in the preparation of the international economic outlook as part of the quarterly publication of KOF economic forecasts.
• Pursue an excellent PhD dissertation in applied macroeconomics, macroeconometrics, or economic nowcasting/forecasting — ideally on topics relevant for the Swiss and/or international economy.
• Develop and implement new forecasting and nowcasting models, and maintain reproducible code and data pipelines.

Profile

• Excellent academic results and are motivated to produce high-quality, policy-relevant research.
• Hold (or will have completed at the time of appointment) a Master’s degree in Economics, Econometrics, Data Science, Statistics, or a closely related quantitative field.
• Possess a solid knowledge of and strong interest in economics and economic policy issues.
• Have excellent quantitative and programming skills: strong knowledge of time‑series econometrics, forecasting methods, or have a strong interest in acquiring those.
• Have experience or strong interest in working with large and/or real‑time datasets, nowcasting, and forecasting evaluation.
• Have excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills.
• You like to collaborate with others and have a compelling writing style in German and English.
• Good command of German is a prerequisite for this position; Knowledge of French or Italian is an asset.

Workplace

We offer

• The starting date for this position is ideally before March 2026 and its duration will initially be 18 months with the prospect of a further extension to up to in total six years.
• We offer the opportunity to pursue a high‑quality PhD at a renowned institution and to work in a dynamic and collaborative research environment.
• ETH Zurich offers internationally competitive working conditions.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents by November 30th 2025:

• A letter of motivation that includes an explanation why you are interested in doing a PhD in economic forecasting
• Writing samples in German or English (e.g., Master thesis)
• Complete academic record with undergraduate and graduate courses and grades
• Copies of certificates
• Contact information for 2-3 potential references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about KOF Swiss Economic Institute can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position or application procedures should be directed to our HR Services [e-mail] (no applications).

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.