Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d) Economics of Innovation and Industrial Dynamics

The ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research in Mannheim, Germany, is one of the leading economic research institutes in Europe. The ZEW is a non-profit organization and works in the field of frontier empirical economic research and high-level policy advice. It is integrated into an extensive national and international network of universities and research institutes. The ZEW is looking to fill the following position in the Research Department Economics of Innovation and Industrial Dynamics.

Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d)

What we are looking for:

• Excellent academic background: You hold an above-average Master’s degree in economics, data analytics, or social sciences
• Strong quantitative skills: You have solid knowledge and hands-on experience in quantitative research methods in economics. Prior exposure to quantitative methods used in competition economics and competition policy analysis are a plus
• Programming proficiency: You are experienced in either R or Python and are eager to further develop your skills
• Initiative & team orientation: You work responsibly, value collaboration, and contribute to a dynamic research environment. At ZEW, we work on our projects in teams, and you have the mindset of an active team player

What we can offer you

• Impactful research: You will work on exciting and socially relevant projects in the field of competition and innovation economics with high visibility and policy relevance
• An excellent environment for your ideas: Look forward to an inspiring, research-driven setting with room to pursue your own ideas. Our team is part of the Mannheim Centre for Competition and Innovation
• PhD support: We provide structured support on your path toward a doctorate. ZEW’s vast international network of partner institutions as well as the great number of projects involving international cooperation offer many exciting opportunities for future career development. ZEW also provides active support to doctoral students in advancing their qualification
• Team spirit & diversity: Become part of an open and dedicated team
• Flexibility: Benefit from flexible working time models and remuneration according to the public sector pay scale (TV-L), including all associated benefits

Application information

If interested, please submit your application (including cover letter, CV, master thesis or another sample of your research) by 19 April 2026 via the online application form on our website only. Please feel free to contact Miriam Charles from HR if you have any questions about the application process. For content related questions of the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Bernhard Ganglmair ( ).

Additional information

Date:

Keyword: PhD_IÖK 03/26

Department: Economics of Innovation and Industrial Dynamics

Application end:

Contact: Miriam Charles

ZEW – Leibniz-Centre for European Research
L7, 1 · 68161 Mannheim · Germany

The ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research has been granted the official title "TOTAL E-QUALITY" in 2021, recognizing it as an employer particularly committed to promoting equal career opportunities for women and men. Our institute actively supports and includes all employees. We welcome applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation and identity.