Universität St. Gallen
St.Gallen
13 hours ago
2 PhD Positions at the Institute of Retail Management (IRM-HSG) (m/f/d)
- 11 February 2026
- 100%
- St.Gallen
Job summary
The Institute for Retail Management (IRM-HSG) at the University of St.Gallen seeks two research associates (m/f/d) immediately or by arrangement. This is a unique opportunity to engage in applied research with top industry partners and enjoy excellent benefits.
Tasks
- Contribute to practical research projects in retail management.
- Assist in Executive Education programs like CAS in International Retail Management.
- Support the Retail Lab with approximately 20 partner companies.
Skills
- Master’s degree in business, economics, or related fields with high grades.
- Strong digital affinity and proficiency in MS Office and IT applications.
- Excellent communication skills with a knack for explaining complex topics.
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About the job
The Institute of Retail Management (IRM-HSG) at the University of St.Gallen is looking for two research associates (m/f/d) (80% - 100%) starting immediately or by arrangement.
The Institute of Retail Management pursues an application-oriented research approach in the areas of strategic retail management, e-commerce, and consumer behavior. In cooperation with around 20 partner companies (including Manor, Migros, Lidl Switzerland, Aldi Suisse, etc.), Prof. Rudolph and his team deal with research- and practice-relevant challenges. The doctoral thesis deals with disruptive and transformative issues in the areas of AI in retail, omni-channel management, customer inspiration, retail branding, and strategic retail management.
We offer an interdisciplinary PhD at the University of St.Gallen with over 30 different institutes and research centers. You benefit from close integration with business practice through around 20 partner companies. In addition, we specifically support you in further developing knowledge and skills during your PhD to prepare you for a career in research or practice. You will receive a very good salary including social benefits such as continued salary payment and pension insurance. Additionally, we enable conference visits at home and abroad as well as, if interested, a stay abroad.
Your tasks
- Participation in practice-oriented research projects.
- Participation in our Executive Education programs (e.g., CAS in International Retail Management).
- Support of our Retail Lab with 20 partner companies.
- Writing scientific publications.
- Assistance with teaching at bachelor and master levels.
Your profile
- Above-average university master's degree in business administration, economics, or a business-related field of study (e.g., psychology or business mathematics) (min. 5.0 (CH) or 2.0 (DE); no FH, MBA, MAS).
- Digital affinity and good knowledge of MS Office programs and/or interest in new IT applications.
- Strong interest in retail, especially in the retail trade.
- Professional and confident appearance, high commitment, teamwork skills, and sense of responsibility.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex issues precisely and understandably.
- High willingness to learn and ability to quickly familiarize yourself with new topics and issues.
"A place that creates knowledge" - As one of the leading business universities in Europe, the University of St.Gallen (HSG) is committed to educating over 10,000 students and offers an attractive and innovative environment in research, teaching, continuing education, and administration to around 3,500 employees as one of the largest employers in the region."
