PhD Student in Tourism Economics
Start Date
01.09.2026
or by arrangement
or by arrangement
Employment Relationship
70-80%, fixed-term until for 4 years
Institution / Workplace
Tourism Research Unit at the Department of Economics
Bern
With us, you create value.
For yourself and for society.
For yourself and for society.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Write a doctoral thesis in the field of tourism economics, environmental economics and regional economics.
- Build and harmonize spatial datasets combining biodiversity indicators, tourism, infrastructure, accessibility, and land use data for Switzerland and analyze these relationships econometrically.
- Contribute to case-study analyses of tourism management measures in Swiss destinations.
- Prepare scientific publications and present research at international conferences.
- Support teaching activities and student supervision in tourism economics.
The PhD position project focuses on the economic analysis of biodiversity and tourism in Switzerland, investigating the relationship between tourism and biodiversity in Switzerland from an empirical and economic perspective.
Qualification
- A very good master's degree in economics, or a closely related field.
- Strong interest in empirical research on tourism, biodiversity, sustainability, environmental policy and regional development.
- Sound knowledge of quantitative methods, econometrics and applied data analysis.
- Experience with statistical software such as R, Stata, or Python; experience with GIS or spatial data is a strong asset.
- Excellent command of English, both written and spoken; good knowledge of German or willingness to improve German is desirable.
- Ability to work independently, carefully and in an interdisciplinary team.
We offer
- The opportunity to develop a cumulative doctoral thesis in economics based on empirical research papers.
- Access to academic networks, conferences, doctoral courses and interdisciplinary exchange.
- Supervision and collaboration with researchers in tourism and environmental economics.
- Fixed-term contract for four years. Remuneration of a 75% position in accordance with the regulations of the University of Bern.
Your Benefits
- Collaborative environment and ambitious team
- Individual career support
- Strong research infrastructure and international network
- International reputation
Working at the University of Bern
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.
Application and Contact
Please send your application (cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts with grades and MA thesis) and letter of reference to Katja Tamburini (katja.tamburini@unibe.ch). Application deadline: 15th June 2026.