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PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher Position in Supply Chain Management

Immigration Policy Lab

Immigration Policy Lab

Operations
Zürich, Switzerland
Posted on Mar 30, 2026

PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher Position in Supply Chain Management

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Supply Chain Management Group (Prof. Dr. Stephan Wagner) at the Department of Management, Technology, and Economics at ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD student / research assistant with a background in Industrial Engineering (Wi-Ing.) / Master of Science (MSc.) or related field. The Supply Chain Management Group at ETH Zurich provides an inspiring, team-oriented research environment with a dynamic and international group of researchers. Our team has a strong track record of publishing in leading operations and supply chain management journals. The position offers close supervision and collaboration with leading faculty and senior researchers, as well as access to ETH Zurich’s excellent research infrastructure and strong international network of collaborators.

Job description

Supply chains are undergoing major changes. Rising geopolitical tensions, the need to manage environmental, social, and governance risks, and evolving customer preferences have elevated supply chain management to a top executive priority. Start-ups and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI, process automation, digital twins, autonomous systems, and blockchain technology, are improving supply chain management capabilities. We are looking for a Ph.D. student to take responsibility for creating and disseminating new knowledge in supply chain management in areas such as

  • Digitalization in the supply chain
  • AI in supply chain management
  • Sustainability/ESG risks
  • Geopolitical risks
  • Supply chain and entrepreneurship
  • Innovation in the supply chain
  • Supplier relationships
  • Logistics service provision

Candidates will be responsible for conducting their own doctoral research, supporting research projects, supervising master’s theses, and assisting with teaching. They will also be expected to participate in community outreach and educational programs. Ideal candidates will be interested in and willing to write research-oriented papers for scholarly journals, academic proceedings, and practitioner journals. You are expected to produce a dissertation project typically consisting of at least three high-quality papers intended for top-tier journals.

Profile

We expect an excellent Master's degree in Industrial Engineering (Wi-Ing.) or a related field, as well as high proficiency in English and German, both written and oral. Candidates must feel comfortable taking a leading role in research meetings with project partners and networking in Switzerland. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate strong teamwork and social skills, as well as independence and exemplary organizational and project management abilities. A high level of motivation for academic research is also required. A strong background in empirical methods and data analysis using statistical or econometric techniques is necessary. Candidates with primarily analytical backgrounds and/or interests will not be considered.

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
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your application. Please submit the following documents as a single merged PDF using only the ETH online portal. Title the document with your last and first name, as well as the application date (for example, 20260422_Jones_Tracy_application). Arrange the documents in the following order:

  • Cover letter with a specific statement of your motivation for the position
  • CV
  • Name and contact information of two references
  • University transcripts and other reference letters
  • Representative published research work (e.g., papers, thesis chapters)

Please note that we only accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications submitted by email or postal services will not be considered.

The application deadline is April 30 or until the position is filled.

For further information about the group, please visit our website.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.