Student Research Assistant (m/w/d)

The Institute of Economic Research and Policy (ERP-HSG) at the University of St.Gallen is seeking a highly motivated Student Research Assistant to work on the SNF-funded project “RIPE - Rational Inattention and Preference Elicitation”. The project is led by Prof. Dr. Michèle Müller-Itten. In this project, we combine experimental, numeric and theoretical methods to study the behavioral implications of flexible, costly learning. A key part of the project is the testing of a novel experimental protocol that allows us to measure perceived learning costs. In a first step, we plan on implementing an online version of the experiment using oTree.

Location & workload:
The position is based at the University of St.Gallen, Switzerland. Students from nearby Swiss universities are welcome to apply (expect to commute to St.Gallen at least twice per month). The degree of employment is set at 20%, and the position is initially limited until the end of January 2026 (Extensions are possible).

How to apply:
Applications should include a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and copies of grade transcripts and certificates. In the cover letter, briefly describe your research interests, your motivation for joining the project, and how your background fits the position.

Compensation:
Compensation for this short-term position is based on the cantonal salary scales available at https://www.gesetzessammlung.sg.ch/frontend/
annex_document_dictionaries/3246 (Klasse F6/F7).
 
Application Deadline:
Review of applications will start immediately and continue until the position is filled. For further information about this position, please contact Prof. Michèle Müller-Itten (E-Mail schreiben).

• Build and maintain experimental tasks in oTree (Python) with clientside components in JavaScript.
• Pilot, debug, and document experimental workflows.
• Assist with data handling, basic analysis, and reproducible code.

• Current Master's student in Economics (exceptionally, strong Bachelor's candidates with excellent programming skills may be considered).
• Demonstrated proficiency in Python and JavaScript.
• Experience with oTree and/or choice experiments is highly desirable.
• Curious, reliable, and committed to high-quality research.
• We particularly encourage applications from women and members of underrepresented groups. 

"A place where knowledge is created" - As one of Europe's leading universities of economics and business administration, the University of St.Gallen (HSG), Switzerland, is committed to the education of over 10'000 students. The HSG is one of the largest employers in the region and provides an attractive and innovative environment for more than 3'500 researchers, educators and professional staff.