"Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d, 35h/week)"

The IHS – Institute for Advanced Studies in Vienna is a leading non-university research institute that creates empirically based knowledge on significant economic and social challenges of our time. It delivers excellent applied basic research and impartial scientific policy advice, combining economic and social science perspectives. IHS is looking to fill the following position in the Research Group Educational Structures and Educational Opportunities.

Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d, 35h/week)

Your work at IHS will focus on economics of education research. As a doctoral researcher, you will be part of a research group that focuses on investigation of educational pathways, the returns to education and skills, and the design of efficient, inclusive education systems. You will develop your dissertation project within these broader areas of research.

Your Responsibilities

• Conduct empirical research in the field of educational economics
• Apply current econometric methods, and possibly AI-based approaches
• Use administrative data and survey data
• Collaborate on externally funded projects, e.g., on the long-term impact of regional educational opportunities on career development
• Participate in a structured PhD program at the University of Vienna and complete a doctorate
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and engage with the academic community and decision makers

About you

• You have successfully completed a master’s degree in economics or a related field of study
• You possess advanced expertise in applied econometrics and microeconomics, specific experience in educational economics is a significant advantage
• You are interested in the design and evaluation of policy measures
• You are proficient in programs such as R, Python, or Stata, e.g., through an empirical thesis
• You are committed to teamwork, collaborative research projects and networking
• You have excellent proficiency in written and spoken English, good German skills are an advantage

What we can offer you

• Participation in an economics PhD program and comprehensive mentoring
• Dedicated research time and broad academic network with opportunities for research stays abroad
• Exceptional avenues for career advancement, leveraged by our strong reputation in both academic research and evidence-based policy advisory
• An inspiring, interdisciplinary environment in the heart of Vienna, top-ranked for its quality of life
• IHS is a certified family-friendly employer and offers, among others, flexible working time arrangements and the option for (partial) remote work

The monthly salary for the advertised position is based on the FWF scheme for doctoral candidates and amounts to € 3,304.12 gross for a 35-hour week, paid 14 times per year. The position is to be filled as soon as possible. The initial contract period is 3 years, with the possibility of an extension upon successful internal evaluation. IHS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and encourages qualified women and underrepresented individuals to apply.

Interested?

Please send your complete application – including a cover letter, CV, research statement, and master’s thesis – to Stefanie Jaksch at application@ihs.ac.at by March 29, 2026. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Mario Steiner, Head of the Research Group Educational Structures and Educational Opportunities. He can be reached via the email address above.