PhD Position in Entrepreneurship using AI-driven Research Methods (minimum 3-year funding) (m/f/d)

This PhD position is funded as part of an SNF research project on entrepreneurial exits. The project uniquely integrates state-of-the-art AI methodologies with rigorous empirical research in entrepreneurship, aiming to deepen understanding of how entrepreneurial decisions evolve dynamically over time and within team contexts. You will be part of a vibrant research group, benefiting from extensive mentorship, collaboration, and opportunities to engage with leading academics and industry professionals.
We look forward to your online application!


Please submit the following documents online:
Cover Letter detailing your research interests, motivation for joining this project, and how your background aligns with the position
Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting your education, research experience, coding skills, and any relevant publications or working papers
Copies of your grade transcripts and certificates
If available: Two reference letters of recommendation


Application Deadline: Review of applications begins on May 1, 2025, and will continue until the position is filled.

• conduct independent, high-quality research at the intersection of entrepreneurship, strategic decision-making, and artificial intelligence (AI).
• assist in developing and refining innovative machine learning methodologies, primarily using Python, in data collection and analysis.
• contribute actively to research focused on entrepreneurial exits, founding team dynamics, and the role of imprinted experiences on venture outcomes.
• design, implement, and evaluate experiments and surveys integrating advanced AI tools and methods, including deep learning and natural language processing.
• Support the team in writing and publishing papers in high-ranked entrepreneurship, management, and technical journals.
• Participate in and help organize academic workshops, conferences, and presentations to disseminate research findings.
• Engage actively in departmental activities, teaching assistance, and student mentoring.

• Master's degree (completed or near completion) in Economics, Business, Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields
• Strong interest and enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, particularly regarding strategic decisions around entrepreneurial exits and team dynamics
• Interest in applying AI and computational techniques to entrepreneurial processes and multimodal communication
• Demonstrable proficiency in Python and familiarity with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow)
• Ambition to publish in top-tier academic journals
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team environment
• Excellent command of English (written and verbal)

"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 9800 students. The HSG is one of the largest employers in the region and provides an attractive and innovative environment for more than 3300 researchers, educators and professional staff.