The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) in Basel, Switzerland, has announced the opening of applications for its prestigious BIS PhD Fellowship Programme 2026, offering an unparalleled opportunity for doctoral researchers in economics, finance, and related fields to gain hands-on experience at one of the world’s most influential financial institutions. This global program is open to candidates of all nationalities, reflecting BIS’s commitment to diversity and international collaboration in central banking research.
About the BIS PhD Fellowship Programme
The BIS Fellowship Programme allows PhD students to participate in cutting-edge economic research that supports the mission of BIS—promoting global monetary and financial stability through international cooperation. Fellows will work alongside BIS economists and analysts, contributing to high-impact research projects on key global issues such as financial intermediation, monetary policy, digital innovation, fiscal policy, and international finance.
The fellowship’s duration is three (03) months, and selected candidates can start anytime between April and December 2026. Fellows will be embedded within the Monetary and Economic Department, gaining exposure to policy-relevant projects, BIS seminars, and academic collaborations. The position offers a rare opportunity to bridge theoretical research with real-world central banking policy applications.
Benefits and Professional Growth
BIS offers a unique, stimulating work environment designed for academic excellence and practical learning. Fellows will benefit from:
- Direct mentorship and collaboration with leading economists and researchers.
- Participation in seminars and workshops featuring visiting scholars from top universities.
- Flexible, hybrid working options that combine onsite work in Basel with home-office days.
- Comprehensive relocation assistance and accommodation support for international candidates.
- Competitive compensation and health coverage during the fellowship period.
This combination of professional engagement and academic freedom makes the BIS Fellowship a prime stepping stone for PhD researchers aiming to influence future global economic and financial policymaking.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants of BIS fellowship 2026 intake must:
- Be enrolled in a PhD program in economics, finance, or a related discipline—ideally in their third or fourth year anywhere around the world.
- Possess strong research skills in monetary, financial, or macroeconomics.
- Be proficient in analytical tools such as Python, MATLAB, Stata, or EViews.
- Have familiarity with major financial and monetary databases (an advantage, but not mandatory).
BIS encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing inclusion and equal opportunity for all qualified candidates.
Why Choose BIS in Basel?
Working at BIS means joining a global hub that connects central banks and financial authorities from over 60 countries. The organization’s compact structure fosters collaboration, allowing fellows to engage across departments and gain exposure beyond their area of specialization. Its Basel office—at the heart of Europe’s financial landscape—provides an ideal setting for both professional and cultural enrichment.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Switzerland BIS Fellowship 2026 Programme is 24 November 2025. All applications must include a CV in English and responses to the official application form questions, submitted by 23:59 CET.