PhD Position in Economics

VU University of Amsterdam

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam – School of Business and Economics, Accounting Research Group
Funding: Sponsored by ING, research is independent at VU Amsterdam
Position Type: PhD (initial 1-year contract, extendable to 4 years)
Salary: €3,059–€3,881/month (gross, full-time, final year), plus fringe benefits including holiday allowance, year-end bonus, pension, commuting contributions
Working Hours: Full-time (38h/week standard; option for 40h/week with extra leave)
Location: Amsterdam Zuidas campus

Project Overview

Financial institutions must perform anti-money laundering, sanctions evasion, and terrorism financing tasks, which are resource-intensive and increasingly data-driven. This PhD project investigates the potential tension between FEC prevention objectives and non-discrimination requirements, exploring:

  • How non-discrimination regulations affect FEC efficiency and effectiveness

  • Implications for policy, regulation, banking operations, and public perception

  • The role of AI and quantitative methods in compliant, fair, and efficient FEC prevention

The project aims to produce at least three publishable academic manuscripts and may include limited teaching opportunities in years 3–4 (BKO certificate optional).

Responsibilities

  • Conduct literature reviews and develop empirical or simulation-based studies

  • Apply quantitative/statistical/econometric methods and analytical models

  • Prepare manuscripts for high-quality academic journals

  • Participate in courses to strengthen necessary skills

  • Limited involvement in teaching and supervision during the final two years

Candidate Profile

  • Master’s degree or Research Master in econometrics, mathematics, data science, business analytics, economics, criminology, political science, social psychology, or similar

  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills

  • Knowledge or interest in FEC regulations and operational processes

  • Motivation for high-quality research and academic publication

  • Excellent communication and writing skills in English; Dutch proficiency is a plus

  • Strong interpersonal skills for collaboration with academics, regulators, and industry partners

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive fringe benefits (holiday leave, pension, commuting allowance)

  • Stimulating, international research environment in a socially engaged organization

  • Opportunities for professional development and academic growth

  • Being part of a diverse research group with connections to academia and industry

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit:

  1. Motivation letter describing abilities and research interest (1 page max)

  2. Curriculum Vitae

  3. Two references (names and emails)

  4. Diploma(s) as part of the application

Applications must be submitted through VU Amsterdam’s online portal; emailed applications are not accepted.

Contact for inquiries:

  • Prof. Dr. Jacco Wielhouwer – [email protected]

  • Dr. Juan Mendoza – [email protected]

Apply