PhD Network effects and spatial transmission in ESG risks and performances in Ch

Since its foundation in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative center of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Belonging to the best research universities of Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen is truly an international place of knowledge.



Faculty of Economics and Business

The Faculty of Economics and Business offers an inspiring study and working environment for students and employees. International accreditation enables the Faculty to assess performance against the highest international standards. It also creates an exciting environment of continuous improvement. FEB's programmes, academic staff and research do well on various excellence ranking lists.



FEBRI, the graduate school and research institute of the Faculty of Economics and Business has available



One PhD position for the project Network effects and spatial transmission in ESG risks and performances in China



ESG (Economic, Social, and Governance) performances of publicly listed firms have become important decision criteria for both policy makers and investors.



As ESG receives increasing public attention, it is crucial to investigate the factors driving ESG risks and performances, taking into account peer effects, spillovers and spatial transmissions.



We have access to a unique cross-sectional dataset of ESG ratings of Chinese stock market listed companies.



Since the estimation of spatial and network models is intricated from an econometric point view, this position provides you with the ideal opportunity to both develop strong theoretical and computational skills and to conduct a sophisticated applied research project.



Organisation

The PhD position is embedded in the research programme EEF of FEB’s Research Institute. The project will be supervised by Sanna Stephan.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate is ambitious, highly motivated and wishes to make a career in research. He or she has a thorough training in research skills, speaks and writes English fluently and has obtained excellent results in the master phase.



The PhD candidate should have a background (MSc, preferably research master) in Econometrics or related field or economics with a strong quantitative focus. Being able to read Mandarin is a plus. Programming and data analytic skills are key.

Salary Benefits:

The full-time appointment is temporary for a period of four years, under the condition of a positive assessment at the end of the first year. The gross monthly salary is € 2,901, which increases yearly to a maximum of € 3,707. Based on the gross salary you will receive an additional 8% holiday allowance each year in May, and an additional 8.3 % end of year bonus in December. PhD candidates contribute 20% of their time to teaching in years 2-4.



Starting date: Negotiable, preferably per September 1, 2025.



An assessment may be part of the procedure, consisting of psychological tests and an interview.

38 hours per week

Broerstraat 5