PhD Opportunity in Agricultural Economics at ETH Zurich
The Food Systems Economics and Policy (FSEP) group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Eva-Marie Meemken, is offering a fully-funded, 4-year PhD position in agricultural economics. This research opportunity is part of a collaborative project on sustainability standards in cocoa supply chains, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation.
Project Overview
The project, titled “Sustainability standards and the ‘hidden middle’—Insights from cocoa cooperatives and their workers in Côte d’Ivoire,” aims to generate new evidence on the impact of sustainability standards on cooperatives and their workers in the cocoa supply chain. These cooperatives play a critical role in managing sustainability certifications, providing training and services to farmers, and supporting logistics and market access.
Research Objectives
For the PhD opportunity in Agricultural Economics at ETH Zurich, the PhD candidate will conduct research that builds on existing fieldwork and data collected in Côte d’Ivoire. The research will involve both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with various supply chain actors to:
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Examine the impact of sustainability standards on cooperatives and their workers
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Analyze the role of cooperatives in the cocoa supply chain
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Identify challenges and opportunities for improving sustainability and social responsibility in the cocoa sector
Job Description
As a PhD candidate for the PhD opportunity in Agricultural Economics at ETH Zurich, you will:
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Develop your doctoral research proposal: Create a clear research plan with well-defined research questions, methods, and timelines.
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Conduct fieldwork in Côte d’Ivoire: Plan and implement surveys and interviews with cooperatives, farmers, and other supply chain actors.
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Analyze data and contribute to academic publications: Use quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze data and contribute to peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and outreach activities.
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Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team: Work with researchers from various disciplines, including agricultural economics, sociology, and environmental science.
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Work independently with mentorship and support: Receive guidance and support from Prof. Eva-Marie Meemken and the FSEP group, while working independently to achieve your research objectives.
Candidate Profile for the PhD opportunity
We are looking for an enthusiastic and capable researcher who:
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Holds a Master’s degree in agricultural economics, economics, or a related field: Or is close to completing their Master’s degree.
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Has strong English and good French language skills: Effective communication is essential for conducting fieldwork and collaborating with stakeholders.
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Possesses quantitative skills and experience in data analysis: Strong econometrics and data analysis skills are required for this position.
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Is passionate about social sustainability and food systems: A strong interest in sustainability, social responsibility, and food systems is essential for this research.
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Is motivated to conduct fieldwork and collaborate internationally: Willingness to conduct fieldwork in Côte d’Ivoire and collaborate with international partners is crucial.
What We Offer for this PhD opportunity
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A diverse and inclusive research environment: Join a dynamic research group with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.
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Access to cutting-edge resources and global collaborations: Benefit from state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborations with leading research institutions worldwide.
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Opportunity to innovate and lead change: Contribute to cutting-edge research that can inform policy and practice in the cocoa sector.
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Professional development opportunities: Develop your skills in data analysis, project management, and communication, and expand your global research network.
Partner Institutions
This research project is a collaboration with:
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CIFOR-ICRAF (Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry): A leading research institution focused on sustainable forest management and agroforestry.
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Wageningen University: A renowned university with a strong focus on agricultural and environmental sciences.
Application Details
To apply, please submit your online application by May 16, 2025, including:
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Letter of motivation (max. 1 page): Outline your research interests, motivation, and relevant experience.
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CV (max. 2 pages): Include your academic background, research experience, and language skills.
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Academic diplomas: Provide copies of your academic diplomas and transcripts.
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MSc thesis or relevant term paper: Submit a copy of your MSc thesis or a relevant term paper.
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Summary of the MSc thesis (max. 1 page): Provide a brief summary of your MSc thesis.
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Contact details of 2 scientific referees: Provide the contact details of two academic referees who can provide recommendations.
Contact
For questions about the position, please contact Prof. Eva-Marie Meemken at emeemken@ethz.ch.
The PhD opportunity in Agricultural Economics at ETH Zurich is a prestigious and fully-funded program that offers numerous benefits, including the chance to contribute to sustainable development, advance agricultural economics, and develop professionally and personally. By pursuing this PhD, candidates can gain expertise in sustainability standards and food systems, enhance their research skills, and improve their career prospects in academia, research institutions, and industry.
