TUM-Economics PhD Researcher Scholarship 2025 in Germany
International students with a passion for empirical economic research—this is your moment! The prestigious Technical University of Munich (TUM) is inviting applications for three fully-funded PhD positions in Microeconomics / Applied Economics at its Chair Group of Production and Resource Economics, spanning across its School of Management and School of Life Sciences.
Program Overview
These exciting research roles are ideal for highly motivated and analytically strong graduates from the fields of:
- Economics
- Agricultural Science (economics-focused)
- Business Administration
- Related quantitative social science fields
The positions are based in Freising, Germany, and the working language is English, with German encouraged for work purposes.
Each selected scholar will:
- Be appointed initially for 2 years, extendable
- Earn a salary under TV-L E13 2/3 (German Public Salary Scale)
- Be integrated into TUM’s Graduate School
- Work in EU Horizon-funded and national-level research projects
- Pursue international collaboration across Asia, South America, or Africa.
TUM-Economics Scholarship Benefits
- Fully-funded PhD position with salary and research project involvement
- Supervision from internationally recognized faculty
- Participation in high-impact EU and national projects
- International exposure and collaboration
- Integration into one of Europe’s best universities and its dynamic research ecosystem
- Freedom to work independently while enjoying a strong support network.
Research Areas
You’ll contribute to cutting-edge research in:
- Natural resources & environmental economics
- Climate policy analysis
- Digitalization, artificial intelligence, and smart technology in economics
- Production efficiency & market analysis
- Policy impact evaluation using quantitative methods.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in economics, business, or agricultural sciences with a focus in economics
- Have excellent grades and strong quantitative research skills (e.g., econometrics, statistics, ML)
- Show high motivation and team-oriented mindset
- Be proficient in English and willing to learn basic German for workplace use.
Required Application Documents
Ensure you submit all of the following in a single PDF:
- Motivation/cover letter (explaining how this role aligns with your goals and experience)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- List of references.
Application Timeline
The application process for the Ph.D. Student / Junior Researcher positions in Microeconomics / Applied Economics at the Technical University of Munich follows a clear and structured timeline. The positions officially begin on 1 November 2024, offering an initial contract duration of two (02) years, with the possibility of extension depending on academic progress and project involvement. There are three positions available under this call, and the deadline to submit your application is 15 June 2025.
Subject: Seeking Guidance on TUM PhD Application – Economics & Sustainability
Dear Engr. Yousaf Saeed,
I hope this message finds you well.
My name is Abdulaziz S. Doma. I’m preparing my application for the PhD Researcher position in Microeconomics / Applied Economics at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany. This opportunity aligns with my background in Economics and my 15+ years of professional experience in financial strategy, sustainability-focused consulting, and donor-funded development programs.
Could you share any advice on strengthening my application and navigating the selection process, especially for an international applicant relocating with family?
Thank you for your continued commitment to empowering scholars globally.
Warm regards,
Dear Abdulaziz, thanks for reaching out—your background in economics plus sustainability/development experience sounds well aligned with empirical micro/applied economics work.
A key focus for these PhD applications is usually (1) a clear research fit with the chair/group’s areas, (2) evidence of quantitative/empirical ability (methods, prior projects, publications/papers), and (3) a strong SOP explaining your trajectory and how the TUM role helps you become a researcher.
Since the article’s stated 15 June 2025 deadline has passed, double-check whether a new cycle is open via TUM’s official call details. If you share your proposed research topic and your degree timeline, I can suggest what to emphasize.