The Center for Economic Behaviour and Inequality (CEBI) at the Department of Economics, University of Copenhagen is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship starting on 1 September 2026.
This opportunity is designed for ambitious candidates who want to contribute cutting-edge research on economic behaviour, inequality, and public policy while working in one of Europe’s strongest empirical research environments.
Why Choose CEBI at the University of Copenhagen?
CEBI is internationally recognized for its research on how economic policies and behavioral factors shape inequality and social outcomes. Funded by the Danish National Research Foundation, the center offers unparalleled access to:
- Denmark’s world-class administrative register data
- Large-scale behavioral experiments and surveys
- An interdisciplinary research environment
As a PhD student at CEBI, you will join a vibrant academic community consisting of senior and junior researchers, PhD candidates, and international scholars from institutions such as Harvard University, UC Berkeley, Princeton University, NYU, and the University of Zurich.
Research Areas and Academic Environment
PhD research at CEBI typically intersects with:
- Public Economics
- Labor Economics
- Behavioral Economics
- Econometrics
- Political Economy
The program emphasizes empirical research, policy relevance, and international collaboration, giving graduates a strong foundation for academic and policy-oriented careers.
PhD Position Overview
The PhD position is available under three different study models:
- 5+3 Programme – 3-year PhD following a completed Master’s degree
- 4+4 Programme – Integrated MSc and PhD (4 years)
- 3+5 Programme – Integrated BSc, MSc, and PhD (5 years)
Responsibilities of PhD Students
PhD scholars at CEBI are expected to:
- Participate actively in CEBI research groups
- Write scientific articles included in the PhD thesis
- Complete PhD-level coursework
- Present research at conferences and workshops
- Teach and disseminate research findings
- Spend time at an international research institution
- Work under supervision of a senior CEBI researcher
Eligibility and Qualification Requirements
Applicants must have a strong academic background in Economics or a closely related field.
Academic Requirements
- Master’s degree in Economics (or equivalent) for the 5+3 programme
- Bachelor’s degree may qualify for integrated 4+4 or 3+5 programmes
- Strong performance in core economics courses is essential
International Applicants
- Degrees obtained outside Denmark will be assessed by the Danish Research Agency
- Certified translations are required if the degree language is not English or Scandinavian
- Good written and spoken English is mandatory
Salary and Funding Details
5+3 PhD Programme
- Fully salaried position under Danish collective agreements
- Teaching and academic duties up to 840 hours over three years
- Fieldwork funding must be applied for separately
4+4 PhD Programme
- Combination of Danish state education grants (SU) and salary
- Paid teaching and academic work (minimum 280 hours)
- Full salary begins after MSc completion
3+5 PhD Programme
- Monthly SU grants during the MSc phase
- Paid academic work alongside studies
- Transition to full PhD salary after MSc degree
All employment conditions follow national agreements between the Ministry of Finance and academic unions.
Selection and Assessment Process
Applicants are shortlisted based on:
- Research quality and alignment with CEBI’s research agenda
- Originality and feasibility of the proposed project
- Academic strength in relevant economics fields
- Previous academic performance
- Availability of appropriate supervision
Shortlisted candidates are evaluated by an academic committee. Due to high competition, only a limited number of scholarships are awarded.
Applicants may be required to undergo a security screening related to international research collaboration.
Equal Opportunity and International Support
The University of Copenhagen is an equal opportunity employer and actively promotes diversity and inclusion.
International PhD students benefit from:
- Visa and relocation support
- Career assistance for accompanying partners
- Family integration services
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 February 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Employment Start Date: 1 September 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Contact Information
Academic Enquiries:
Claus Thustrup Kreiner
Email: ctk@econ.ku.dk
Recruitment Process:
HR South
Email: hr-soendre@adm.ku.dk
Reference ID: 211-2331/25-2H #2
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online and written in English. The following documents are required:
- Project abstract (maximum 1,200 characters)
- Cover letter explaining motivation and research interests
- Research proposal (maximum 12,000 characters, excluding references)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree certificates and transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Description of grading scale
- Proposed time schedule
- Budget outline
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- APPLY NOW
Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship includes salary or state grants, depending on the programme, in line with Danish employment standards.
Can international students apply?
Yes. CEBI strongly encourages international applications and provides relocation and integration support.
Is teaching mandatory?
Yes. Teaching and academic dissemination are part of the PhD training and are included in paid work obligations.
What type of research does CEBI prioritize?
CEBI focuses primarily on empirical research related to economic behaviour, inequality, and public policy.
What language is the PhD conducted in?
The PhD programme is conducted entirely in English.
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