PhD Position in Economic Geography, starting in July 2026

The Unit Economic Geography, Institute of Geography, University of Bern, invites applications for a four-year PhD position.
The successful candidate will develop and conduct high-quality academic research as part of their doctoral dissertation and contribute to the unit's broader activities, including teaching and supervising bachelor students. A dedicated budget is available to support fieldwork and participation in international conferences.
The unit's research and teaching explore the dynamic interplay between economic, social and ecological transformations in urban and peripheral contexts. Our aim is to develop a better understanding of sustainable, equitable and resilient forms of economic development, and providing evidence-based insights for policymakers and society. The group has a strong policy focus and regularly collaborates with national and international decision-makers.
More information about the group:

• A strong interest in one or more of the following themes: regional economic development, geography of sustainability transitions and innovation, socio-ecological transformations, climate adaptation, just transitions, urban or peripheral resilience, circular economy, post-growth.
• A solid understanding of qualitative research methods (e.g. interviews, stakeholder mapping, content analysis, focus groups)
• Experience in conducting empirical research and academic writing

• An above-average Master's degree in geography or a closely related discipline (e.g. economics, urban planning, sociology, political science, transition studies, anthropology)
• Strong motivation for research and publications
• Reliability and ability to work in an international team
• An excellent command of English (spoken and written) and good knowledge of German
• Residence in Switzerland or willingness to move to Switzerland

• A fully funded PhD position
• The opportunity to develop and conduct an innovative research project
• An inspiring research team and a healthy working environment
• Supportive PhD supervision
• Access to national and international research networks, practitioners, workshops, conferences and training events
• Diverse opportunities for continuing education
• Salary according to the guidelines of the University of Bern
• High quality of life in Bern and the Bernese Oberland and numerous amenities such as river swimming, hiking, and skiing.

For questions, please contact:
Dr. Sebastian Fastenrath – sebastian.fastenrath@unibe.ch
Prof. Heike Mayer – heike.mayer@unibe.ch

Please send your application as one single PDF file
Deadline: February 9th, 2026
The application must include:

• Letter of motivation
• Curriculum vitae with up to 2 references
• BA and MA transcripts or reports
• Sample of your written work (Master's thesis, a thesis chapter, or a seminar paper)
• A 1-page proposal for a possible doctoral project