University of Augsburg Summary

Title: PhD Student (f/m/d) in Environmental Economics
Location: University of Augsburg, Germany
Closing Date: June 15, 2026
Contract: Fixed-term, 3-year contract with potential continuation, salary according to Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L, part-time (75%)

Exciting PhD Opportunity in Environmental Economics at University of Augsburg

The University of Augsburg is seeking a motivated and diligent PhD candidate to join the research project “Designing Early Warning Systems for Approaching Tipping Points,” led by Prof.

Dr. Florian Diekert. This innovative project, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), explores how early warning systems can enhance decision-making in socio-ecological systems prone to tipping points.

Combining economic theory with experimental approaches, the research aims to develop design principles suitable for various decision environments, from single-shot to dynamic and multi-agent settings.

The successful candidate will conduct economic experiments under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Florian Diekert in Augsburg and collaborate closely with Prof. Dr. Daniel Heyen’s team at RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau.

The position is anticipated to commence on September 15, 2026, or as mutually agreed.

Position Details and Responsibilities

Conduct doctoral research culminating in a PhD dissertation
Participate actively in research, teaching, and organizational activities within the working group
Design, plan, and execute economic experiments

Perform statistical analysis and interpret scientific findings
Communicate research results to policymakers, academics, and the public

What the University Offers

Integration into a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive research team
Opportunity to contribute to climate resilience research
Strong support for individual research endeavors
An excellent work environment fostering professional growth

Candidate Profile

Self-motivated with team spirit and diligence
M.Sc. degree or equivalent in economics or a related field (expected completion date if not yet finished)
Proven expertise in environmental economics and/or mechanism design

Keen interest in theoretical research combined with empirical analysis and economic experiments
Proficiency in English (oral and written); German language skills are desirable but not mandatory, with a willingness to learn German preferred
Relevant certificates proving qualifications

Additional Information

This is a fixed-term position for three years, with the possibility of extension, aligned with academic qualification requirements.

Salary follows the collective agreement for civil servants (Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L). The University promotes gender equality and supports family-friendly policies.

Severely disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualifications.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit a single PDF file containing a motivation letter, CV, two reference contacts or letters, and relevant certificates by June 15, 2026, via email to regina.papp@uni-a.de. For further inquiries, contact Prof. Florian Diekert at florian.diekert@uni-a.de.

Apply here: University of Augsburg Job Portal