Fully Funded PhD Position – Behavioral, Environmental, and Development Economics at VU Amsterdam: Apply by 31 July 2026 @VU Amsterdam: Apply by 31 July 2026

Overview

The Department of Spatial Economics at the School of Business and Economics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is seeking a motivated PhD candidate for the project “Fostering Sustainable Development with Artificial Intelligence”. This position focuses on research in behavioral, environmental, and development economics using AI tools to address societal challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent, high-quality research in behavioral, environmental, or development economics.
• Explore how AI can foster sustainable development through experimental and empirical methods.
• Collaborate with Liseli Decision Lab in Zambia for research.
• Apply various research methods, including experiments and data analysis.
• Receive funding support for field research and conferences.
• Develop a job market paper for academic career advancement.

Requirements

• Students in their second year of a research master graduating before September 2026, or first-year students with relevant coursework graduating before September 2027.
• Strong academic record in economics or related fields.
• Interest in behavioral, environmental, and/or development economics.
• Ability to conduct independent research and apply creative approaches.
• Fluency in English; other languages are an asset.

Benefits

• Salary: €3,059–€3,881 gross/month based on education and experience.
• Initial 1-year contract, extended for 2 years after positive evaluation.
• Working Hours: 38–40 hours/week, with holiday leave entitlement and optional benefits package.
• Additional benefits: Commuting allowance, end-of-year bonus (8.3%), sports facilities, and conference opportunities.
• Partial remote work possible, presence in Amsterdam required for teaching and departmental events.

Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a curriculum vitae, a motivation letter, academic diplomas and transcripts, one letter of recommendation, an academic paper, and evidence of English language proficiency.

Deadline

31 July 2026