PhD Opportunities at LISER: AFR Grant Program
LISER is seeking motivated and highly qualified candidates to apply for the AFR PhD grant funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR). Applicants will have the opportunity to develop a PhD project with guidance from expert supervisors, in collaboration with the University of Luxembourg and other international universities.
LISER particularly welcomes applicants with an interest in the following research areas:
1. Modeling Climate Migration and Its Evolution
Supervisors: Prof. Christina Gathmann, Dr. Michal Burzynski
This project aims to develop advanced spatial models to study climate-induced migration. By analyzing the impact of economic, demographic, and climatic factors, the research will explore future mitigation and adaptation policies. The project will offer collaboration with high-level policy discussions involving the United Nations, the World Bank, and European institutions.
2. AI and the Green Transition in the Labor Market
Supervisors: Prof. Christina Gathmann, Dr. Joël Machado
This project seeks to extend a theoretical framework for modeling workers’ sorting across sectors and occupations in light of technological and structural changes, such as artificial intelligence and the green transition. The research will analyze the implications for migration, labor markets, and welfare systems.
3. Access to Healthcare for Vulnerable Populations
Supervisor: Dr. Valerie Moran
This research will investigate healthcare access for vulnerable populations such as women, immigrants, and those with lower socio-economic status or poorer health. The project may involve primary data collection or a mixed-methods approach, with the goal of improving healthcare access and understanding the barriers faced by these groups.
4. Attitudes Towards Redistribution, Inequality, and Taxation
Supervisor: Prof. Javier Olivera
This research agenda focuses on public attitudes toward economic redistribution, inequality, and taxation, especially inheritance taxes. The project will use experimental methods and survey data to explore how beliefs about fairness and redistribution are shaped by underlying socio-economic factors.
5. Economic and Social Inclusion for People with Disabilities
Supervisor: Prof. Marc Suhrcke
This research will explore the economic and social inclusion of individuals with disabilities. It will evaluate policies and initiatives aimed at improving inclusion in the labor market and society, and examine strategies to overcome barriers to participation, aligning with international commitments such as the UNCRPD.
Candidate Profile:
- Education: A Master’s degree (or expected completion) in economics, sociology, data science, or related fields.
- Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills in English; a passion for research and critical thinking.
- Encouragement: LISER particularly encourages female candidates to apply.
Offer Details:
- Research Environment: Candidates will be part of an exciting, multidisciplinary, and international research environment at LISER and the University of Luxembourg.
- Salary: The PhD position offers a highly competitive remuneration, according to the Collective Labour Agreement, with a contract for up to 4 years (3+1 years).
- Training & Mentoring: Access to a wide range of courses, seminars, and career development opportunities, including language courses.
- Flexibility: Flexible working hours and the possibility of teleworking.
- Annual Leave: 32.5 days of annual leave for a full-time contract.
Application Process:
Candidates are invited to submit their complete applications via the LISER Jobs Portal, including:
- A detailed CV
- A cover letter outlining thematic interests, motivation, and suitability for the PhD project(s) (select up to 3 projects)
- A relevant written document (e.g., working paper, thesis chapter, seminar paper)
- Copies of relevant diplomas and transcripts
- Two academic reference letters
Application Deadline: January 5th, 2025 (midnight CET)
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for virtual interviews in January 2025. The AFR grant application deadline is March 12th, 2025 (14:00 CET), with applicants being informed by July 2025 about the funding decision.
For recruitment queries, candidates should contact Mrs. Vanya KIROVA at [email protected].
About LISER:
LISER is a publicly funded research institute in Luxembourg, specializing in applied research across the social, economic, and spatial sciences. Located on the Belval campus, LISER encourages interdisciplinary research aimed at addressing societal challenges. The institute collaborates with national and international partners to produce impactful research and policy advice.
LISER is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
