The Berlin School of Economics (BSE) has announced two postdoctoral research associate positions for its 2027 programme cycle, open to early-career economists seeking to work within academic institutions in Berlin and Brandenburg, Germany. One post centers on urban and public economics at the University of Potsdam, while the other focuses on applied labour economics and gender at the WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
What the programme offers
The BSE Research Associates Program brings together a network of academic institutions across the German capital region to support postdoctoral researchers and junior professors in economic sciences. Participants gain access to research infrastructure, academic exchange and professional development opportunities while pursuing specialized work within an established institutional environment. The programme does not function as a single employer; each position is hosted and administered separately by its respective institution.
Two distinct research tracks
The University of Potsdam position is oriented toward urban and public economics, fields that examine housing markets, regional development, transportation, taxation and the effects of government policy on economic behavior. The WZB Berlin Social Science Center post focuses on applied labour economics, with particular attention to gender-related questions such as earnings differences, occupational segregation and access to leadership roles. Both areas carry direct relevance to public policy debates, including housing affordability, employment equality and the design of government interventions.
Who may be eligible
According to the announcement, likely candidates include researchers who have completed a PhD in economics or a closely related discipline, along with those building an academic portfolio in applied microeconomics, econometrics, labour economics or regional economics. These descriptions outline plausible backgrounds rather than confirmed eligibility rules; applicants must consult the official vacancy listings for binding requirements on qualifications, documentation and deadlines.
Practical steps for applicants
The source announcement does not specify closing dates, salary levels or contract duration, so interested researchers should verify these details directly through the official application channel before proceeding. Preparing a competitive application typically involves aligning one's research agenda with the advertised focus area, presenting a clear academic CV, and where required, submitting a focused research statement that outlines methodology and planned contributions. Because the two positions address different research areas, candidates are advised to tailor separate applications to each institution rather than submitting identical materials.