ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship: A Deep Dive into Agricultural Economics and Climate Policy
ETH Zurich, a globally recognized leader in science and technology, has announced a fully funded four-year PhD scholarship opportunity. This program focuses on Agricultural Economics and Climate Policy, aiming to address critical challenges in Swiss agriculture and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The scholarship is part of the ACHIEVE Project, a major national research initiative focused on achieving net-zero emissions in hard-to-abate sectors within Switzerland. This doctoral opportunity offers a chance to contribute to vital research on sustainability, climate change mitigation, and evidence-based policy solutions.
The scholarship is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and provides comprehensive funding for four years, including a competitive salary, extensive research and training opportunities, and strong academic mentorship. The application deadline is June 26, 2026. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about the intersection of agriculture, economics, and climate policy, offering a pathway to high-impact international research and career development.
About ETH Zurich and the ACHIEVE Project
ETH Zurich is renowned for its cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and global scientific influence. The university fosters an environment of interdisciplinary collaboration, working with academia, industry, government, and civil society to tackle major global issues. With over 30,000 students and researchers from more than 120 countries, ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide. The institution is deeply committed to sustainability, climate neutrality, equal opportunity, and diversity.
The PhD scholarship is funded by the “Pathways to a Net-Zero Target for Hard-to-Abate Swiss Emissions” (ACHIEVE) project. This national research initiative involves 29 member entities and 27 collaboration partners, including researchers, public sector institutions, industry actors, civil society stakeholders, and policymakers. The project’s goal is to develop net-zero emission strategies for Switzerland, focusing on climate mitigation pathways and evidence-based policy recommendations for a sustainable transition. Within this framework, the Agricultural Economics and Policy Group at ETH Zurich leads a work package dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Swiss agri-food systems.
Research Focus and Key Areas
The doctoral student will conduct research at the forefront of climate change mitigation in agriculture, exploring agricultural economics and policy, and understanding farmer decision-making processes. The project specifically investigates the economic aspects of climate mitigation, the effectiveness and efficiency of various policy instruments, and the behavioral dimensions of environmental action. A significant part of the research will focus on the impact of climate policies on Swiss agriculture and the adoption of sustainable practices by farmers.
Key research areas for this PhD position include developing greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies, analyzing farmer behavior and adaptation to climate change, evaluating agricultural policy instruments, and understanding climate-related decision-making. The research will also delve into sustainability transitions in agriculture, data-driven agricultural policy analysis, and the economic incentives that encourage environmental action. This comprehensive approach aims to provide practical, data-backed solutions for a more sustainable agricultural sector.
Research Methodology and Activities
The doctoral project will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining economic theory with practical data collection and analysis. Major research activities include 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, alongside secondary datasets, using advanced economic and statistical methods.
Furthermore, the researcher will engage directly with various stakeholders, including farmers, policymakers, and agricultural and sustainability experts, to ensure the research is relevant and impactful. Collaboration with other PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and international project teams will be a key component, fostering an interdisciplinary learning environment. The doctoral student will also have the opportunity to supervise bachelor and master’s students, contributing to their academic development. This hands-on approach ensures that the research is grounded in real-world challenges and solutions.
PhD Training and Academic Development
As part of the doctoral program, the selected candidate will complete 18 ECTS of PhD-level coursework, providing a strong theoretical foundation and advanced research skills. Participants will also engage in advanced academic training and interdisciplinary learning opportunities, broadening their perspectives and expertise. ETH Zurich is committed to providing extensive mentoring and professional development support throughout the program. This includes guidance on academic writing, presentation skills, and career planning, preparing graduates for successful careers in academia, government, industry, or international organizations focused on sustainability and climate policy.
Duration, Start Date, and Eligibility
This is a fully funded, full-time, fixed-term position for four years. The planned start period for the scholarship is the last quarter of 2026, specifically between October and December.
To be eligible, applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics or a closely related discipline. Candidates who are nearing the completion of their Master’s degree may also be considered. A critical requirement for this position is C1 proficiency in either German or French, as the project involves direct engagement with Swiss farmers and stakeholders. While strong English communication and academic writing skills are highly beneficial, proficiency in one of the Swiss national languages is essential for effective fieldwork and collaboration.
Skills and Competencies Required
Successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical skills and robust quantitative research abilities. Competence in academic writing is essential for disseminating research findings. Applicants should possess a genuine interest in climate policy and sustainability, coupled with the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary environments. The capacity to conduct independent research, manage projects, and collaborate with diverse teams will be highly valued. Experience with survey design, data analysis software, and behavioral experiments will be advantageous.
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 with a competitive salary, providing financial security for doctoral studies. Researchers gain access to world-class research infrastructure and the opportunity to collaborate with leading scientists in their fields. Personalized mentorship from experienced academics ensures strong academic supervision and career guidance.
The university fosters an international and diverse community, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and offering a multicultural research experience. The program provides comprehensive career development support, preparing graduates for diverse roles in academia, government, industry, and international organizations. Continuous training opportunities, including PhD-level courses and skills development workshops, further enhance professional growth and networking possibilities. ETH Zurich’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and sustainability creates a supportive and dynamic environment for all students and staff.
Required Application Documents and How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit all required documents as a single PDF file. These include a cover letter detailing their motivation and research interests, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining their academic and professional background, and the contact details of two referees who can attest to their qualifications. Academic transcripts from previous degrees are also required.
Applications must be submitted online through the ETH Zurich application portal by the deadline of June 26, 2026. Applications sent via email or post will not be accepted. It is advisable for applicants to prepare their materials carefully and submit them well in advance of the deadline to ensure all requirements are met.
The Importance of This Opportunity
Climate change mitigation in agriculture presents one of the most pressing global policy challenges today. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, food security, and the broader sustainability transition. This ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for researchers to contribute to impactful climate research, influence future agricultural policies, and work directly with stakeholders to develop practical sustainability solutions. It serves as an exceptional pathway for students passionate about sustainability, agricultural economics, climate governance, and environmental policy to build a globally respected academic career and make a tangible difference in addressing climate change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ETH Zurich PhD Scholarship about?
It’s a fully funded four-year scholarship at ETH Zurich focusing on Agricultural Economics and Climate Policy to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Swiss agriculture.
What are the main research areas for this scholarship?
The research covers emission reduction strategies, farmer behavior, policy instrument analysis, and decision-making related to climate change in agriculture.
What are the eligibility requirements?
You need a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics or a similar field, and C1 level German or French. Strong English skills are also important.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
You must submit all required documents as a single PDF file through the ETH Zurich online application portal by June 26, 2026.
