Postdoctoral Research Associate (f/m) - Ref: 25-38

The Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research

is recruiting a

A Postdoctoral Research Associate (f/m)

• Ref: 25-38
• 3-years fixed term contract (possible 2-years extension under conditions)
• Full-time, 40hours/week
• Work contract at LISER, “Crossing borders” transversal programme
• Work location: Belval (Luxembourg)
• Deadline: no strict deadline — applications will be processed upon reception
• Expected start: flexible (after January 1st, 2026)

LISER invites applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate position within its “Crossing Borders” transversal programme.

About Crossing Borders

Crossing Borders addresses some of today’s most pressing issues: migration, commuting flows, and cross-border dynamics in a rapidly changing world. The programme explores the drivers and impacts of labour mobility, ethno-racial discrimination, strategies for fostering social cohesion, the role of borders and transport infrastructure, and the influence of migration on attitudes and political preferences. Particular emphasis is placed on the interplay between climate change and migration.

The programme’s mission is to advance frontier research, inform evidence-based policymaking and promote societal impact. It also plays a central role in training the next generation of scholars through the ACROSS Doctoral Training Programme. Crossing Borders is internationally recognised as a leader in migration research and is ranked in the top 10 worldwide for the Economics of Human Migration (MIG), in the top 5 in Europe and 1st in the Benelux, according to the authoritative RePEc ranking.

What we are looking for

We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious researcher with a strong interest in combining quasi-experimental methods with structural approaches to topics related to migration and mobility. Candidates should also contribute to policy-relevant research and have a solid theoretical understanding of economic mechanisms. Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valued:

• Structural or theoretical modelling;
• Advanced causal inference strategies;
• Design and analysis of field experiments or RCTs.

Your mission

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will:

• Conduct innovative, high-quality research publishable in leading international journals in Economics and beyond;
• Contribute to grant applications and competitive funding proposals;
• Design and evaluate evidence-based policy interventions;
• Engage in outreach activities—such as policy briefs, roundtables and media contributions—and actively participate in LISER’s scientific life—including seminars, workshops and collaborations.

Your profile

• Ph.D. in Economics, Econometrics, or a related field, ideally with a focus on the Economics of Migration, Economic Geography and/or Development;
• Excellent skills in theoretical modelling, quantitative methods and data analysis;
• Strong writing skills for both academic and policy audiences;
• Programming skills (Stata, R, Python)—knowledge of machine learning/data science is a plus;
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills in an interdisciplinary and international environment;
• Fluency in English (oral and written).

We offer

• A dynamic and international research environment, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration;
• Flexibility in the organisation of the working hours and the possibility of teleworking ;
• Competitive remuneration under the Luxembourg Collective Bargaining Agreement, including benefits such as half of a 13th month, meal vouchers;
• Generous leave: 32.5 days per year (for full-time contracts);
• Strong institutional support for career development, including training, mentoring, and participation in international conferences and networks.

LISER is strongly committed to diversity and inclusion, and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background, and particularly encourage applications from female researchers.

Application process

Please submit your complete application in English via our online system: https://jobs.liser.lu/jobs :

1. A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply;
2. A detailed curriculum vitae;
3. A research agenda defining compatible with the focus of the Crossing Borders programme and beyond;
4. Copy of diplomas;
5. One Job Market Paper (or relevant publication);
6. Two letters of reference (to be sent directly from referees to recruitment@liser.lu).

Early application is encouraged as the applications are processed upon reception, and virtual interviews will take place on a rolling basis—with the first round expected mid December 2025. The position will remain open until filled.

For administrative matters, please contact recruitment@liser.lu