Department of Economics
Predoctoral Research Associate in Economics at the Chair of Globalization and Labor Markets, University of Zurich 70 %
Start of employment Q1 2026, temporary
The Department of Economics of the University of Zurich invites applications for the position of a Full-Time Predoctoral Research Associate in Economics. The Research Associate receives an appointment of up to 1.5 years at the Department of Economics and will work closely with Prof. David Dorn.
Your responsibilities
The position offers an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in developing cutting-edge empirical research. It will support research projects on labor markets, globalization, technological change, and political economy.
Specific responsibilities include obtaining, organizing and cleaning data, analysing data using statistical software, presenting results, and writing documentation and reports. See for past research projects and data outputs.
Your profile Experience : Candidates should have hands-on experience with statistical software, ideally including Stata and possibly Matlab or R. Formal post-undergraduate professional experience is not required.
Education: This position is usually filled by those with a Master's degree in economics, social sciences, public policy, mathematics, statistics, or related fields. Training in microeconomics, econometrics, and statistics is required.
Communication: Good oral and written communication skills in English. Knowledge of German is not required.
Time Management: Proven ability to handle several different projects/tasks at one time, successfully complete tasks assigned, and meet deadlines. A willingness to work hard, be self-motivated and learn will be essential for doing well in this position.
Citizenship : Both European citizens and non-Europeans are welcome to apply.
The Pre-Doc is a full-time position with a flexible start date in the first quarter of 2026 and end date in summer 2027. It offers a competitive salary. The successful candidate will join a motivated team of young researchers in Zurich, who work in a dynamic environment that offers frequent interaction with other research assistants, PhD students, faculty members, and access to seminar series. Alumni of the University of Zurich's Pre-Doc program have subsequently gone on to prestigious PhD programs in Europe and the United States.
Information on your application
The application should include the following: motivation letter, CV, and academic transcripts from past and current studies. Applicants should also arrange for two reference letters, ideally written by supervisors of past research-related activities. Any necessary inquires can be directed to economics recruiting, while applications should be submitted via the link below. The binding deadline for applications is October 12, and reference letters should be received by October 19.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
Free seasonal flu vaccinations
Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
Special conditions on hotel reservations
Conditions of Employment
Policies of the UZH
Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
Department of Economics
Schönberggasse 1, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Anne Sander
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer