RFBerlin (ROCKWOOL Foundation Berlin – Institute for the Economy and the Future of Work) offers rigorous training in economics through a five-year structured PhD program designed to prepare students for first-class research careers. 

During the first year, the program provides a comprehensive coursework phase at the Berlin School of Economics (BSoE), of which RFBerlin is a member. Through the BSoE, you will also have access to the Berlin-wide academic network of leading universities and research institutions, creating opportunities for networking and collaboration across a vibrant research community. 

From the second year onwards, the focus shifts to independent research. As an RFBerlin PhD candidate, you will have access to dedicated workspaces and state-of-the-art facilities at our offices in central Berlin. Through our mentorship program, you receive advice from leading labor and applied economists from across Europe and beyond, who provide close academic guidance throughout the research phase. 

RFBerlin offers you a dynamic and collegial research environment, featuring regular seminars, workshops, and brown-bag sessions, as well as a Masterclass series with internationally renowned scholars who will teach you frontier knowledge in economics. Frequent visits by top economists and an active schedule of conferences and research events create a stimulating setting for exchanging ideas and developing research projects. 

RFBerlin provides an exceptional platform for conducting high-quality empirical and theoretical research in economics, combining rigorous academic training with access to world-class data, mentorship, and an international research network. 

Program Overview

• The PhD program is structured into two phases (see Figure below): 
• Qualification Phase (Semesters 1-3): This phase focuses on foundational coursework and research training. Participants receive a monthly stipend funded by the Berlin School of Economics (BSoE). RFBerlin provides dedicated workspace and access to the institute’s research facilities.  
• Dissertation Phase (Semesters 3-10): The second phase centers on independent research and dissertation writing. During this period, RFBerlin provides competitive funding, research support, and first-class resources (including workspace, computer, and data access). 

Doctoral students at RFBerlin benefit from a comprehensive support structure that includes: 

• Mentorship: RFBerlin’s research staff includes many of Europe’s leading labor and applied economists. Doctoral students gain access to this network for guidance, supervision, and collaboration throughout the research phase. 

• Global Research Opportunities: RFBerlin’s broad international network creates opportunities for research stays at prestigious universities worldwide, fostering international collaboration and exposure. 

• Customized Study Plan: Students develop a personalized study plan together with their advisors that may include further advanced training in labor economics, econometrics, and related fields. 

• Career Development Support: Tailored job-market preparation and personalized guidance from experienced researchers equip students for both academic and non-academic career paths. RFBerlin’s researchers have a strong record of successful placements at leading universities and international organizations. 

• Learning Opportunities at RFBerlin: The institute offers a wide range of additional learning and networking opportunities, including Brown Bag seminars, RFBerlin Masterclasses, and lectures by world-renowned speakers. 

• Dedicated Workspace: Each PhD student is provided with a fully equipped, dedicated workspace in RFBerlin’s state-of-the-art facilities. 

• Advanced Research Resources: Students have access to specialized databases, secure research servers, and advanced tools to support their research endeavors. 

How to Apply 

All applications for the PhD program must be submitted through the Berlin School of Economics (BSoE) portal.

Application requirements: 

• A Master’s degree with a strong academic record in economics or business studies. Related fields (e.g., industrial engineering, statistics, quantitative social sciences) may also be considered if you have sufficient economics or business studies background. 

• The GRE General Test is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. 

• English language proficiency (for non-native speakers) is to be demonstrated through TOEFL or IELTS unless you hold a degree from an English-speaking university or have studied for at least one year at an English-speaking institution. 

• German language skills are not required. 

For detailed information, please visit the BSoE portal.  

Application Process 

The application process for the 2026 academic year will open in late October 2025. Applicants interested in joining RFBerlin for the dissertation phase should indicate this preference on their Berlin School of Economics (BSoE) application form. After submission, all applications will be reviewed by the BSoE Admissions Committee. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview with RFBerlin faculty members, typically held in January or February 2026. Final admission decisions will be communicated shortly thereafter. 

Please note that the timeline may vary depending on the number of applications. For the most up-to-date information, consult the official BSoE website and announcements. 

For any questions regarding the application process, please refer to the BSoE  FAQs section.  

Enrolment and Supervision 

As a PhD student at RFBerlin, you will be enrolled at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, giving you full access to the university’s academic resources and services while maintaining close ties to the Berlin School of Economics (BSoE) network. 

Supervision is tailored to your individual research interests. You may select a mentor and advisor from RFBerlin’s Project Leaders, many of whom are among Europe’s leading applied economists. This personalized supervision structure ensures exposure to diverse academic perspectives, enhances the quality and visibility of your research, and strengthens your professional network—preparing you for a successful career in academia, policymaking, or industry.  

What Our Current PhD Students Say 

“The environment amongst PhD students at RFBerlin and the BSoE is one of the most collaborative and supportive I have ever experienced. Nowhere else do PhD students and Postdocs come together like this to share ideas, give feedback, and of course support each other through the ups and downs of academia!” 

Catharina Behrens, PhD Student

“As a PhD student at RFBerlin, I learn from and collaborate with some of Europe’s most distinguished labor economists. Berlin moreover offers a vibrant research environment, with over 70 BSoE faculty members, a diverse array of inspiring courses, and regular guest lectures by renowned economists.” 
Lukas Tohoff, PhD Student