The Economics Department, University of Zurich (Prof. David Yanagizawa-Drott), is inviting applications for full-time pre-doctoral research fellows. The positions are for two years, with a flexible start date between June and October 2025. Successful applicants will work on cutting-edge research exploring the role of AI technologies in lower-middle-income countries, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa (Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya).
The position is seeking candidates for two tracks
- Economics Track: Ideal candidates will have a major in Economics, a strong quantitative background, and some coursework in machine learning (ML) or a strong interest in learning more about ML and LLMs. Experience working in developing countries is an advantage but not a requirement.
- Applied ML Track: Ideal candidates will have a major in computer science, experience in supervised ML and reinforcement learning, and coursework in economics.
Eligibility
- University degree in a relevant discipline (economics, computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics).
- Postgraduate qualifications (MA/MSc/MPhil) or a BA with an outstanding academic record (for.
- Excellent research and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in STATA, R, or Python is preferred.
- Demonstrable experience with reinforcement learning and supervised ML (for the applied ML track).
Application Details
- A cover letter outlining interest, the track the applicant is applying for (clearly indicated in bold at the top of the letter – if applying for both tracks, write “Economics and ML Track” and submit only one application), available start dates, familiarity with programming languages, prior research experience, experience working in developing countries, and, if applicable, a written confirmation of EU citizenship for applicants with only a Bachelor’s degree.
- An up-to-date CV.
- Contact information (names, email addresses, and phone numbers) for two referees.
- Further Documents: A writing sample (thesis or a course assignment) together with transcript and a coding sample in one pdf.
For further information about the research and the Department of Economics, contact: yanagizawadrott.com and socialcatalystlab.org or send an email to SC*@******zh.ch.
