Student Assistant at KOF Swiss Economic Institute (Chair of Applied Macroeconomics)
Immigration Policy Lab
Student Assistant at KOF Swiss Economic Institute (Chair of Applied Macroeconomics)
20%-30%, Zurich, fixed-term
The KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich is the leading institute for applied research in economics in Switzerland.
KOF has a strong collaborative environment that promotes exchange between research and administrative staff across different levels and functions and is committed to rigorous, applied research on policy-relevant topics with a connection to Switzerland.
Project background
For the Chair of Applied Macroeconomics, we are seeking a student assistant to support a research project on central banks from November 2025 through January 2026.
Job description
We are looking for individuals with a strong interest in research in applied economic topics (labour markets, public economics, political economy, macroeconomics), often related to policies in Switzerland, and a desire of getting a glimpse into rigorous applied research. Prior experience in handling and analysing data using statistical software packages such as STATA and/or R is desired and a strong interest and drive in developing these skills is expected. Since many research tasks involve researching and summarizing media and government websites, policy reports and research papers in German and English (and sometimes French) and clarifying questions with local stakeholders, strong communication skills in these languages are desired.
- Data cleaning and (descriptive) analysis using statistical software packages such as Stata, R, and/or Matlab
- Collecting data using web scrapers and data providers like Macrobond
- Coding in R or Matlab on data analysis and macroeconomic forecasting
- Programming surveys with Qualtrics
- Investigating relevant aspects of policies, regulations, and events in online (Swiss) media outlets and summarizing them in policy briefs
- Screening and summarizing the relevant literature for research questions
- Acquiring information from and coordinating with (Swiss) government offices or data providers
- Supporting research staff in field research and data collection
Profile
You must be enrolled at a Swiss University and willing to work between 1 to 2 days per week (15h). At KOF, working time is typically handled very flexibly such that you can take time to study for exams or fulfill other obligations for your studies while coordinating with the research staff at KOF when tasks need to be completed.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
- You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits
We value diversity and sustainability
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- Cover letter (short)
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcript of records of studies up to date or graduation records
- An estimation of your ability and skills separately for Stata, R, and Matlab on a scale from 1 (beginner) to 5 (proficient)
- At least two writing samples (if possible one in English and one in German, e.g., a semester-, seminar- or Bachelor's thesis)
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
Further information about KOF Swiss Economic Institute can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position (no applications) should be directed to KOF HR (hr@kof.ethz.ch).