PhD in Economics (m/f/d)

The climate needs bright minds. The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) addresses crucial scientific questions in the fields of global change, climate impacts and sustainable development. It is one of the world's leading research institutions in its field and offers natural and social scientists from around the world an inspiring environment for excellent interdisciplinary research.

For the research domain Climate Economics and Policy, led by Prof. Sabine Fuss and Prof. Matthias Kalkuhl, PIK is offering a position as a

PhD in Economics (m/f/d)

(Position number: 33-2025 PhD Spatial Equilibrium)

in the field of spatial equilibrium modeling, starting on 01.11.2025.

PhD positions are funded for 3 years with a 75% share of the total E13 salary in accordance with the German public tariff scheme (TV-L Brandenburg).

Background: Addressing climate change and biodiversity loss requires a deep understanding of global land-use dynamics and the economic trade-offs involved. We aim to develop and apply an economic spatial equilibrium model to explore these issues. The model will focus on global land use, with a particular emphasis on the provision of global public goods such as carbon dioxide removal and storage, forest conservation, and biodiversity preservation. While the initial focus will be on tropical forest regions, the model will maintain a global scope to capture international interactions, such as the demand for agricultural products from regions like the EU. This research will inform the design of effective and equitable environmental policies.

Key responsibilities

• development of the spatial equilibrium models
• analyze environmental and climate policies, assessing their impact on global public good provision, local costs/benefits, and welfare effects
• utilize the model to assess the spatial dimension of natural capital
• present research at international conferences and publish in academic journals

Requirements

• a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, for example in Economics, Regional Science, Economic/Quantitative Geography, or Mathematics
• knowledge and experience in spatial equilibrium modeling (e.g., through coursework, thesis work, or previous projects) is beneficial
• experience with spatial data analysis using GIS tools or spatial libraries and familiarity with common land-use datasets would be advantageous
• familiarity with environmental or agricultural economics research is beneficial

We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every requirement. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to finding the best candidate, recognizing that growth and learning are part of the role.

We expect

• a strong collaborative spirit and enjoyment working closely within a diverse research team
• intellectual curiosity, creativity, and an openness to exploring new methods and interdisciplinary perspectives
• a high level of competence in oral and written German and English 

We offer

• an inspiring, international, and interdisciplinary work environment in a world-leading research institute with the opportunity to complete a high-quality dissertation
• participation in a dynamic research team with supportive colleagues, fostering collaboration and mutual learning
• a lively community of PhD students on the campus, offering the chance to engage and connect  - our PhD Representatives offer information and advice when needed
• access to high-performance computing
• a chance to contribute meaningfully to an ambitious research agenda focused on creating positive impacts for global society and future generations
• flexi-time and mobile working (up to 50% of your hours)
• an attractive workplace located on the Telegrafenberg in Potsdam and possibility to work at the EUREF Campus office in Berlin Schöneberg
• a collective pay scheme and associated benefits as well as a subsidized travel card or Deutschland-Ticket Job.

PIK values equality and diversity. We encourage applications without photo. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of ethnic and social origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, care responsibilities, or age. PIK seeks to increase the share of women in scientific positions, and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. In cases of equal qualification and within the given legal scope, women will be given preference. PIK also encourages applications by parents returning from parental leave.

Please apply by 14.09.2025 directly via our application form below this job advertisement on our website.

If you hold an international higher education qualification, please also submit a certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) with your application. If you do not yet have a transcript evaluation, please note that you may have to request one if your application is successful. For further information, please visit the website: https://www.kmk.org/zab/central-office-for-foreign-education.html

For further information or to discuss the position please contact Kai Lessmann.

More Information