ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship: Agricultural Economics & Climate Policy (2026)

ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship: A Deep Dive into Agricultural Economics and Climate Policy

ETH Zurich is offering a fully funded four-year doctoral scholarship focused on Agricultural Economics and Climate Policy. This opportunity is part of the ACHIEVE Project, a major national research initiative aimed at developing pathways for Switzerland to reach net-zero emissions. The scholarship provides a unique chance to contribute to urgent global challenges by researching solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in agri-food systems and creating practical climate policy recommendations.

This doctoral position is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and offers comprehensive support, including full funding for four years, a competitive salary, extensive research and training opportunities, and strong academic mentorship. ETH Zurich, a globally recognized leader in science and technology, provides an environment known for cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university is committed to sustainability, climate neutrality, and fostering an inclusive academic culture.

The ACHIEVE Project itself is a collaborative effort involving numerous entities, researchers, public sector institutions, industry actors, and policymakers. Its goal is to create net-zero emission strategies for Switzerland through climate mitigation pathways and evidence-based policy recommendations. Within this larger project, the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group at ETH Zurich specifically targets the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions within Swiss agri-food systems.

Research Focus of the Doctoral Position

The PhD candidate will engage in research centered on climate change mitigation within agriculture, agricultural economics, and policy. Key areas of study include understanding farmer behavior in response to climate policies, developing sustainable agri-food systems, and analyzing farmer decision-making processes. The project will investigate the economic aspects of climate mitigation, the effectiveness and efficiency of various policy instruments, and the behavioral dimensions of environmental action. Ultimately, the research aims to understand the impact of climate policies on Swiss agriculture and to inform future strategies.

Key Research Areas for the PhD Candidate

The selected doctoral student will explore several critical topics. These include developing effective greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies for the agricultural sector, examining farmer behavior and adaptation to climate change, and evaluating different agricultural policy instruments. The research will also focus on climate-related decision-making processes, facilitating sustainability transitions in agriculture, and using data-driven analysis for agricultural policy. Furthermore, the role of economic incentives in promoting environmental action will be a significant area of investigation.

Research Methodology and Activities

The doctoral project will employ a combination of economic theory, data collection, survey research, and behavioral experiments. Quantitative analysis and stakeholder engagement will also be central to the research process. Major activities will involve designing and implementing farmer surveys and behavioral choice experiments to gather primary data directly from Swiss farmers. The candidate will be responsible for analyzing this survey data, as well as working with existing secondary datasets, conducting economic and statistical analysis.

Engagement with farmers, policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and sustainability experts will be a key component of the research. The doctoral student will also collaborate with other PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and international project teams, fostering an interdisciplinary approach. Additionally, the role includes supervising bachelor’s students and supporting master’s students, providing valuable teaching and mentorship experience.

PhD Training and Academic Development

As part of the doctoral program, the selected candidate will complete 18 ECTS of PhD-level coursework. This coursework will be complemented by participation in advanced academic training and interdisciplinary learning opportunities. ETH Zurich is dedicated to providing extensive mentoring and professional development support throughout the entire four-year program, ensuring the candidate has the resources needed for academic and personal growth.

Duration and Employment Details

This is a fully funded, full-time, fixed-term position lasting for four years. The planned start period for the scholarship is the last quarter of 2026, specifically between October and December. This provides a clear timeline for the doctoral research and associated activities.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be eligible for this scholarship, candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics or a closely related discipline. Applicants who are nearing the completion of their Master’s degree are also encouraged to apply. A strong academic record is essential for consideration.

Language Proficiency Requirements

Given that the project involves direct interaction with Swiss farmers and stakeholders, proficiency in either German or French at a C1 level is a mandatory requirement. While strong English communication and academic writing skills are highly beneficial for research and collaboration, the ability to communicate effectively in one of the local languages is crucial for fieldwork and stakeholder engagement.

Essential Skills and Competencies

Successful applicants will possess strong analytical skills and demonstrated abilities in quantitative research. Competence in academic writing is also necessary for producing research papers and reports. A genuine interest in climate policy and sustainability is paramount, as is the ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary environments. These skills will enable the candidate to contribute meaningfully to the ACHIEVE Project and the broader field of agricultural economics and climate policy.

Benefits of the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship

The ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship offers a highly attractive research environment with numerous benefits. The position is fully funded for four years, providing a competitive salary in line with ETH Zurich standards. Researchers gain access to world-class research infrastructure and opportunities to collaborate with leading academics in their fields.

Candidates will receive strong academic supervision and personalized career guidance. The university fosters an international and diverse community, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. The program also includes continuous training opportunities, such as PhD-level courses and skills development workshops, alongside academic networking events. This comprehensive support system is designed to prepare graduates for successful careers in academia, government, industry, and international organizations.

ETH Zurich’s Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich actively promotes equality of opportunity, an inclusive academic culture, and respect for diversity. The university is committed to sustainability-focused research and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. This inclusive approach ensures that all staff and students can thrive in a supportive and dynamic research environment.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are required to submit all application materials as a single PDF document. This includes a cover letter detailing their motivation and suitability for the position, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining their academic and research experience, and the contact details of two referees who can attest to their qualifications. Academic transcripts, showing coursework and grades, are also essential components of the application.

Application Deadline and Submission

The deadline for submitting applications is June 26, 2026. Applicants are strongly advised to prepare their application materials carefully and submit them well in advance of the deadline to ensure they are considered. Applications must be submitted online through the ETH Zurich application portal. Applications sent via email or post will not be accepted.

How to Apply for the Scholarship

Interested candidates should first visit the ETH Zurich online application portal. Once there, they need to prepare all the required documents as listed above. The final step is to submit the complete application online before the stated deadline. Following these instructions carefully will ensure a smooth application process.

Significance of This Doctoral Opportunity

Addressing climate change mitigation in agriculture is a critical global policy challenge. Agriculture plays a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, food security, and the transition to sustainability. This ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship offers researchers a chance to contribute to impactful climate research, influence future agricultural policies, and develop practical sustainability solutions. It provides an exceptional pathway for students passionate about sustainability, agricultural economics, climate governance, and environmental policy to build a respected academic career.

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