PhD Position in Supply Chain Management

The Supply Chain Management Group (Prof. Dr. Stephan M. Wagner) at the Department of Management, Technology, and Economics at ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD student and research assistant position.

Supply chains are undergoing major changes. Rising geopolitical tensions, the need to manage environmental, social, and governance risks, and changing customer preferences have pushed supply chain management to the top of the executive agenda. The capabilities of supply chain start-ups and emerging technologies such as digital twins and artificial intelligence are being used to improve supply chain management.

We are looking for a PhD candidate motivated to develop their doctoral research within our group. The candidate will take responsibility for creating and disseminating new knowledge in supply chain management through empirical research in areas such as:

• Digitalization and technologies in the supply chain
• Artificial intelligence in logistics and supply chain management
• Supply chain management and entrepreneurship
• Supply chain risk, disruption and resilience
• Cybersecurity in supply chains
• Sustainability and ESG risks
• Sourcing and supplier relationships

Candidates should be willing and interested in writing research-oriented papers for scholarly journals, academic proceedings, and practitioner journals.

The assistant will participate in the group's activities by, for example, providing support in the group’s research projects, supervising master’s theses, and assisting in teaching. Candidates will be involved in third-party-funded industry projects with large and medium-sized Swiss organizations. They will also be expected to participate in community outreach and educational programs.

• An excellent Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Independence and high motivation for academic research in the group’s topics.
• Proficiency in empirical research methods, including statistics and data analysis, and the willingness to further acquire respective skills.
• Strong team spirit and social skills, and curiosity and motivation to learn and develop.
• Excellent English communication skills (both written and spoken) and fluency in German.
• Experience in working with industry partners or in consulting is preferred.
• Please note: Candidates with a primarily analytical background and/or interest will not be considered.

This is a 100% fixed-term position based in Zurich. The initial contract is for two years with the possibility of extension until the completion of the PhD. The position will typically last three to four years, including doctoral coursework.

We offer an optimal working environment, opportunities for personal and professional development, and strong mentoring throughout the PhD project. We provide the opportunity to collaborate with research institutes and universities abroad and to present research results at international workshops and conferences.

The position is available to start as soon as possible, but the starting date can be discussed. Please indicate your preferred starting date in the cover letter.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.