PhD Position

PhD Position (m/w/d)

80 % (limited, by or mutual agreement)

Your tasks

Project Overview

We use the "ignorance equivalent" approach [Müller-Itten et al, 2025] to model learning ability, and seek to better understand the interplay between personal preference traits and learning behavior. The main objectives of the project are:

• Develop numeric algorithms that efficiently determine the optimal rational inattentive choice for a range of learning cost functions.
• Use these algorithms to simulate the behavioral impact of different cost functions in concrete settings, and compare it with documented patterns of behavior.
• Design and deploy an experimental protocol that allows us to measure perceived learning costs.
• Implement the protocol in several choice experiments (both online and in the lab) to identify key features that drive the cost of learning.
• Experimentally compare perceived versus experienced learning costs to uncover potential biases.
• Identify how risk attitudes shape the agent's incentives to learn.

What to expect as a PhD student on this project:

• You will conduct innovative and high-quality research on choice with costly learning.
• You will have time dedicated to advancing your own independent research agenda.
• You will actively contribute to the project's research activities, from developing theory, running experiments and evaluating data to the drafting and publishing of academic papers.
• You will support the teaching initiatives of the team and contribute to the organization of occasional workshops.
• You will be part of a vibrant research community in the institute and the department. You are expected to attend seminars, provide feedback on other's research, and contribute to the preparation of grant proposals.
• The position is based in the beautiful city of St.Gallen, Switzerland, and requires regular presence at the department.
• The start date is flexible, but no later than August 2026.

Compensation

Compensation for this short-term position is based on the cantonal salary scales.

Your profile

Your profile

• A master degree (completed or near completion) in Economics or Mathematics, with a strong background in experimental economics, numerical methods and/or economic theory.
• Enthusiasm and ambition for conducting high-quality research.
• Hands-on experience with designing and running experiments (lab, online, or field) is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently, think creatively and contribute collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
• Effective written and verbal English-language communication and time management skills.

How to apply:

Applications should include a cover letter, two letters of reference, a curriculum vitae, and copies of grade transcripts and certificates (see also https://

). In the cover letter, briefly describe your research interests, your motivation for joining the project, and how your background fits the position. If you have any academic publications or working papers, please include a copy with your application. Please arrange for two letters of recommendation to be sent directly to Prof. Dr. Michèle Müller-Itten at michele.mueller-

Application Deadline:

Review of applications will start on December 1st and continue until the position is filled. For further information about this position, please contact Prof. Michèle Müller-Itten (michele.mueller-).

The Institute of Economic Research and Policy (ERP-HSG) at the University of St.Gallen is seeking a highly motivated PhD Assistant to work on the SNF-funded project "RIPE - Rational Inattention and Preference Elicitation". The project is led by Prof. Dr. Michèle Müller-Itten. In this project, we combine experimental, numeric and theoretical methods to study the behavioral implications of flexible, costly learning.

We are looking forward to your online-application stating the job ID 2615

apply here

Inspirational Work Environment
Executive Education
Network
Family & Career
Equal Opportunities
Fit and Healthy

Further information on working at the HSG can be found here.

For job-related questions

Michèle Müller-Itten

Assistant Professor of Microeconomics

Denise In-Albon

Institute Manager Administration ERP-HSG

Your place of work
University of St.Gallen

«A place where knowledge is created» - As one of Europe's leading universities of economics and business administration, the University of St.Gallen (HSG), Switzerland, is committed to the education of over 10'000 students. The HSG is one of the largest employers in the region and provides an attractive and innovative environment for more than 3'500 researchers, educators and professional staff.

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