Doctoral Students’ salary

phd student salary in switzerland

Various funding sources

Funding for assistant positions comes from various sources, including grants from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), the Commission for Technology and Innovation, and the European Research Council, as well as other national and international research agencies, from other public sources, and from private industry. The basic starting salary of an EPFL doctoral assistant is CHF 54’550.- gross per annum (valid from 01.01.2024). The full salary scale is available here .

A registration fee (at the beginning of your studies), and a doctoral tax (at the completion of your studies) are charged (see Ordonnance sur les taxes and the webpage « Doctoral Studies »). If you receive a scholarship from your home country, EPFL has a policy of ensuring you receive an income equivalent to that of internally-funded doctoral students.

Please note that you must be admitted by a doctoral program before you can be hired as a doctoral assistant. In some cases, candidates will be admitted by a doctoral program that does not have a corresponding funded position available. Those candidates remain eligible for hiring during 1 year if funding occurring. They also have the possibility to look for individual scholarships and funding.

  • Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships : Only if you are admitted by a doctoral program  that does not have a corresponding funded position available, the PhD Scholarship is an interesting option.
  • Doc.ch Fellowships : if you are admitted by a program that does not have a corresponding funded position available and your field of research can relate to a field of humanities or social sciences, the doc.ch fellowships is an interesting option.

Some of our doctoral students are employed by external research labs. If this situation applies to you, please contact your doctoral program for further information.

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phd candidate salaries in Switzerland

phd candidate salaries in Switzerland

  • Doctoral students in Switzerland receive, as a guideline, between CHF 3,920 and CHF 6,690 gross per month, based on a 100% employment rate.
  • The median salary (50% earn more and 50% earn less) is CHF 53,000 gross per year and CHF 4,417 per month.
  • Depending on the institution and field of research and depending on how the PhD is funded (SNF-scholarship, assistanceship etc.), the loan can have a wide range. PhD candidates in exact sciences (computer science, mathematics, physics, ...) and medecine are usually better paid than PhD candidates in life sciences, chemistry, arts and humanities. However, the salary and the working conditions depend on the exact contract you have.
  • Please consider, that PhD candidates often have only a 50% employment.

Salary comparison

In comparison to a doctoral candidates, a masters graduate who is employed outside the university, earns significantly more:

  • The annual gross salary (median) for master graduates at university level (all economic sectors, all positions, all regions), 1 year after graduation in 2020 is: 78’400 CHF
  • The annual gross salary (median) for master graduates from universities of applied sciences 1 year after graduation in 2020 is: 84’000 CHF

But a graduated PhD then starts with a higher salary:

  • The annual gross salary (median) for PhDs 1 year after graduation in 2020 is: 93’100 CHF

Source: FOS / ETHZ / lohnanalyse.ch

  • Usual working time in Switzerland: 42 hours per week.
  • Holidays: Legally 4 weeks per year. Some companies give 5 weeks.
  • For further information, see our sections PhD in Switzerland , postdoc in Switzerland and professor in Switzerland .
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PhD In Switzerland: Everything You Need To Know

Studying in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its degrees in business , is home to some of the best institutes of technology, and is a world leader in science and engineering. This fact makes it the perfect country to continue or advance your education, especially to crown it with a PhD.

Universities

A PhD is the highest degree a person can obtain from a university, and it stands for Doctorate in Philosophy. It is not related to philosophy-related studies. It is a doctorate, possible in any discipline, except medicine, and sometimes theology. Some PhD’s require a Master’s degree.

These are the best Swiss universities that offer PhD programs in many disciplines.

Best universities for international students

It is estimated that around 50% of PhD students in Switzerland are international students. This big percentage is a factor of the great universities and PhD programs in Switzerland. It is a circle; the good universities attract lots of students, and a large number of students encourage international universities.

No matter what angle you look at it from, Switzerland is an overall great country to live and study in. Swiss universities generally rank relatively high compared to other world universities.

These are the best Swiss universities that offer PhD programs, as well as their world ranking:

The University of Zurich is one of the best universities in Switzerland. They rank 58th in the world .

The University of Geneva’s PhD programs provide students with a high-quality education for an academic career in economics, econometrics, management, statistics, finance, and information systems. They rank 59th in the world .

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne offers customized PhD programs, cutting-edge laboratories directed by internationally renowned professors, a modern, fast-developing campus, satellite sites in French-speaking cantons, and close ties to industry. They rank 81st in the world.

The University of Basel has been developing around 40 PhD programs since 2010. They rank 96th in the world.

Language of instruction

phd student salary in switzerland

Tuition in Switzerland can be generally low compared to other countries, but what about the overall costs once you r elocate for your academic program ? Here is a breakdown of the basics.

Cost of studying

The cost of studying in Switzerland depends on the university you choose to finish your doctoral studies. As you move to higher levels of education, the tuition fees get lower . A bachelor’s degree tuition is higher than a master’s one, and a master’s tuition is higher than a PhD.

Tuition fees for PhD programs in Switzerland range around CHF 1000 to CHF 2000. But sometimes Swiss universities advertise their PhD programs as paid assistant jobs. This way, you don’t have to pay your tuition fee, and you get paid for the job you’re doing.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Switzerland for a PhD student depends on a personal choice of recreational activities, but it’s somewhere around CHF 1600 – CHF 2000 for monthly expenses.

Accommodation

Average price: Studio – CHF 900 to 2000/per month, Shared flat – CHF 500 to 900/per month

Clothes, personal care, entertainment

Average price: CHF 75-100/per week for groceries

Public transport

Average price: CHF 100/per month

Health insurance

Average price: CHF 90/per month

Utilities and memberships

Average price: CHF 350/per month for utilities, gym membership, Netflix membership, and internet bills.

C lothes, personal care, entertainment

Depends on your lifestyle.

Scholarships for PhD students

phd student salary in switzerland

As for other specific scholarships from universities , we have another guide where you can find everything out in detail.

Eligibility

These are some of the things to bear in mind when applying for a Phd program in Switzerland .

Residence permit

All students (even those coming from an EU or EFTA member country) will still have to apply for a residence permit for a stay longer than six months. Students from all other nationalities apply directly for a visa in their country of origin, usually issued within eight weeks.

Language certificates

All universities usually require a language certificate proving you know the language of instruction. In most cases, you’ll need to know the respective language at a minimum C1 level. Some of the widely recognized certificates are:

  • For English – IELTS score of 7, TOELF score of 600 or 100 (paper-based or online), and Cambridge CPE or CAE.
  • For German – Goethe Certificate C1 or TestDaF with TDN 4
  • For French – DALF (Diplôme approfondi de langue française) C1
  • For Italian – CELI (Certificazione Italiano Generale) C1 or PLIDA (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri) C1

PhD Salary in Switzerland

Wondering how much do PhD students get paid in Switzerland? What about postdocs? To compensate for the high cost of living, Switzerland’s salaries are some of the highest in the world.

PhD students and postdocs tend to get employed by universities on a fixed-term contract—and they get paid well. Additional benefits may also apply, such as reduced public transportation or free access to all the university gyms.

PhD student salary in Switzerland

The  average PhD student salary  in Switzerland is around CHF 50,000 per year. However, if not fully employed, the pay will be accordingly less.

Postdoc salary in Switzerland

The median postdoctoral salary in Switzerland is around CHF 80,000 per year. Entry-level positions start at CHF 43,200 per year, while most experienced workers make up to CHF 94,000 per year.

Dear Sir, My request is to have details of P.hD. in embedded systems ,machine learning etc as my son is pursuing Ms thesis in electrical and computer engineering in Purdue school of engh.zUSA which will be completed in june2020 or earlier depending upon his defence date. He is very much eager to hv his P.hD done from one of the best colleges of Switzerland.pl help in this regard with last dt of appln,fee,required qualificationsetc. With regards Uday Kumar Sinha Calcutta India

We have written an article in which we have listed some of the best PhD programs in Switzerland and have included everything related to those programs. You can find it here: 1 2 Best PhD Programs in Switzerland . We hope this article will answer your questions.

We wish the best of luck to your son.

Satisfactory

Thank you, Uday.

Am from from Africa Kenya a member of the Commonwealth countries whose official instruction is English Language. Will be pleased to study specialize in finance for i have done Bachelor of Commerce (Finance Option) and Master of Business Administration (Finance Option) undergraduate and Masters degree programme options

I ‘m very satisfied with the informations I gained from this website and hope to see by applying for the PHD I want. Studying in such a stable Country’s University is GOd sent opportunity for those secured and recieved. Blessings, Chucha Gobena From Ethiopia

Thank you, Chucha,

Happy to help.

Thank you for the information. I am a Canadian citizen, originally from Sri Lanka. I like to do my PhD in Applied Linguistics. Switzerland, as I heard, is one of best countries in the world. No one has ever said to me anything bad about Switzerland. I would love to explore that country as well as do my research. I wonder whether this PhD is recognized around the world, whether I can survive with English and the money I would receive.

If my medium of study till master’s is english still IELTS or GRE is mandatory for pursuing P.hd in Switzerland?

Would you have information or ranking on accredited Part time PHD programs in Switzerland for professionals? Thank you.

Can you plz write an article on PhD in Astrophysics, Astronomy from University of Zurich …??

I am currently living in india I have a double Post graduation degree. One in commerce and the other in business administration. Besides the mentioed degree I have a MPhil in commerce too. I have 12 yrs of teaching experience at various MBA colleges in India. I’m interested in pursuing PhD in management/marketing in Switzerland. Can you please guide me accordingly. Thanks in advance.

hello sir, i want to persue my ohd in business or commerce from Switzerland. Will you help me to know the procedure and is there any scholarship provided for the programme. I am from india . Thankyou

Hello sir, I have done my post graduate in law, and I want to pursue my PhD in law from a good University in Switzerland, can you please let me know about the suitable universities for law and also everything related to scholarships and other ways to meet the financial aspects.

With regards, From Assam, India

Thank’s so much for info.

Thank you for all the information in your website, they are quite helpful. I am Irish and live in Ireland.

Is it possible for me to get funded law PhD in Switzerland? If that is possible, please how do I go about it.

I will appreciate if you can come back to me on this query.

Many thanks

Is GRE needed for PhD in Switzerland? How is the biotech field in Switzerland (especially in Virolgy and immunology)? And how much importance do professors give to papers published by students for selecting the PhD candidate?

Hi I want to pursue a phd in swiss. But it shall be double doctorate. I have already acquired one from Malaysia. Will swiss universities allow me to pursue my dream to acquire a doctoral degree which will be my second one.

can you help in this.

regards Zain

Dear sir, This is Eakub Ali. from Bangladesh currently living in Tokyo, Japan. I have completed an MBA in Finance from Bangladesh and joined national and multinational companies in the accounting sector for more than twelve years. Then I got admitted to another MBA and moved to Solbridge International School of Business, (AACSB accredited) South Korea. from where I came to Meiji University, Japan through the double Masters Degree program and I completed my MBA this month. Now I have an intention to do my PhD.

Would you please tell me the whole process of PhD admission in Switzerland, when admission starts and what is the requirements for admission? I would be very helpful if you please help me providing necessary information.

Thanks in advance and very best regards,

I would like to pursue my PHD studies in Public Health,please assist me with the relevant universities and the process for application.Do they allow part time studies and do they fund the studies?

Can any assistant professor of India become assistant professor in Switzerland with his indian educational qualifications.?

Please guide me about the procedure of applying for PhD in Eth Zurich in biomedical engineering. I am currently the student of M.Tech. Clinical Engineering at IIT madras .Is there any benefit given to IIT student?

Dear person in charge,

What are the costs and details of an online PhD or Doctorate in Business Administration in Switzerland?

Kindly, include all possible details, especially names of business schools and programs’ contents

Is the language proficiency certificate mandatory for postdoc applicants too?

Are there part time PHD Programs in Switzerland in business management dubjects?

Thank you Mahesh

typo – = please read it as Management Subjects

Whether PhD programs for English literature and Psychology is available Also want to know whether Scholarships for these projects are available When we have to apply for this programme When the admission is

Hello sorry for disturbing but I want to ask if there is any PhD program in HR in universities in Switzerland so please can you give me the names of universities that offer for me PhD in HR. THANKS IN ADVANCE.

SURPRISE KWESI AMENUVOR, Am from from Africa Ghana a member of the Commonwealth countries whose official instruction is English Language. I study Bachelor Of Science in Business administration specialize in Banking and Finance Option) and Master of Business Administration (Finance Option) I will like to Apply for PHD in Finance.

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University of Central Florida

phd student salary in switzerland

Founded as a public institution in 1785, UGA boasts an illustrious history in higher education. Today, Georgia's flagship university offers online programs to make a UGA degree more accessible. The online courses limit class sizes and use the same high academic standards as on-campus classes. UGA offers an online bachelor's degree in special education and multiple online graduate programs in education. Degree-seekers can also earn master's degrees in community nutrition, international biomedical regulatory sciences, emerging media, and avian health and medicine. Other available online master's programs include business, technology, and social work.

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University of Georgia is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

phd student salary in switzerland

10% your international health insurance for life!

Scorestudies includes higher benefits than the Swiss compulsory health insurance, it is very often on a full refund basis and no co-​payment of 10% is required. In case of emergency, hospitalisation or prescribed medication, you are fully reimbursed by Allianz Care.

phd student salary in switzerland

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Doctoral Student Salaries

  • Counselling
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  • 1 – Preface and Introduction
  • 2 – Finding a Doctoral Position
  • 3 – Welcome to Zurich, Switzerland
  • 4 – First Day at Work
  • 5 – Being a Doctoral Student
  • 6 – Life in Zurich
  • 7 – Finishing the Doctorate
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Timeline of salary discussions:

Announcement that there will be inflation adjustments for everyone except doctoral students. Julia Dannath, ETH vice-president meets with us and promises to create working group with profs and departments representatives to solve this. 

AVETH creates a dedicated internal taskforce with representatives from all departments to achieve 3 goals: – Immediate significant relief for students at rates 1 and 2. – Regular salary adjustments matching those of other ETH employees. – Equitable and sustainable strategy to reduce the wage disparity

D-BIOL and D-GESS departments with all PhD students at standard level give out bonus 1000 CHF payment to their doctoral students 

SNF 2.5% adjustment for all doctoral salaries

Jan – Oct 2023

Working group with AVETH, VPPL and departments discusses options for doctoral salary system. AVETH argues our case, prepares and distributes info posters (e.g. the one on the right), collects testimonies. Working group reaches agreement to help doctoral students at the lowest salary level.

Schulleitung finances centrally 5% adjustment for standard level for January 2024 and decoupling doctoral salaries from SNSF and coupling them to other ETH staff salaries ! Thank you !

phd student salary in switzerland

We will continue to ensure that doctoral students’ voices are heard., To stay up to date on the developments of the working group, please fill in this form . For comments, questions or thoughts, please feel free to email us .

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43 PhD jobs in Switzerland

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  • PhD positions in Zurich (26)
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  • PhD positions in Dübendorf (5)
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  • PhD positions in St. Gallen (1)
  • PhD positions in Davos Dorf (1)
  • PhD positions in Courroux (1)

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Search results (43)

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Ph.D. candidate for modelling & optimising highly efficient drive systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devices

Ph.D. candidate for modelling & optimising highly efficient drive systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devicesThe Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information ...

Ph.D. candidate for designing, modelling & optimising charging systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devices

Ph.D. candidate for designing, modelling & optimising charging systems for E-vehicles based on GaN devicesThe Laboratory for High Power Electronic Systems (HPE) at the Department of Information Tec...

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PhD student position: quantum sensing of biomolecules and their chemical stimuli.

For the prestigious PhD school of the Swiss Nanoscience Institute, we solicit applications for a paid 4-year PhD student position in the Biomolecular Nano-Dynamics group at the Dept. of Chemistry a...

PhD position on "On-Chip Separation of Proteins for Single-Cell Proteome Profiling"

PhD position on "On-Chip Separation of Proteins for Single-Cell Proteome Profiling"The laboratory of Single-Molecule and Single-Cell Biophysics (BMC)is a research group in the Department of Informa...

2 PhD Positions in Designing and Optimizing Materials for Bacterial-Based Sustainable Biopesticide Delivery Systems

2 PhD Positions in Designing and Optimizing Materials for Bacterial-Based Sustainable Biopesticide Delivery SystemsThe bioMatter Microfluidics (Dr. Eleonora Secchi, D-BAUG) and SoftMat Group (Prof....

Doctoral Student in Computational Chemistry

Doctoral Student in Computational ChemistryProf. Dr. Sereina Riniker's group for Computational Chemistry at the Institute of Molecular Physical Science is interested in the development of methodolo...

PhD Position in Biofabrication and 3D BioPrinting

PhD Position in Biofabrication and 3D BioPrintingInjuries to the musculoskeletal system are widespread and can impact quality of life. The field of tissue engineering and bioprinting is constantly ...

Biozentrum PhD Fellowships – Winter Call 2024/25

The Biozentrum of the University of Basel is one of the leading life sciences institutes in the world. Its fundamental research embraces a wide range of topics such as biochemistry, biophysics, phy...

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PhD position in X-ray based 3D virtual histopathology for studying metastases evolution in colorectal cancer

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. ...

PhD and Post-doc positions in the field of Optimization and Deep Learning Theory (Prof. A. Lucchi)

The Optimization of Machine Learning Systems Group (Prof. A. Lucchi) at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Basel is looking for several PhD students and post-do...

Doctoral (PhD) student in Karma economies

Doctoral (PhD) student in Karma economiesThe NCCR Automation is looking for a doctoral student to study the problem of fair and efficient resource allocation in engineering systems. The student wil...

PhD position (100%, Start from October 2024)

The Department of Biomedicine is a joint effort between the University of Basel and the University Hospitals Basel. It unites basic and clinical scientists to advance our understanding of health an...

PhD student position in Optical Spectroscopy of Tunable van der Waals Quantum Materials

The newly-established “Quantum Opto-Electronics" research group of Prof. Tomasz Smoleński at the Department of Physics, University of Basel, Switzerland (https://smolenski-lab.com), is looking for ...

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International Fully Funded PhD Positions in the Life Sciences in Switzerland

*New application deadlines for two open calls per year: November 1 and May 1!Life Science Zurich Graduate School offers more than 100 funded PhD positions. With around 500 research groups and more than 1600 Ph.D. students, the Life Science Zurich ...

Doctoral student in Genomics

Doctoral student in GenomicsThe Animal Genomics group within the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at ETH Zurich investigates animal (epi-)genomes and transcriptomes. We apply long read sequencing...

PhD position: Global History/Violence Studies with a regional focus on South America

The Department of History at the University of Basel, Switzerland, invites applications for a PhD position in a global history project led by Prof. Dr. Marie Muschalek (principal investigator, PI),...

Open PhD position in nature conservation

Applications are invited for a PhD position at the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Switzerland, and in the French nature reserve Petite Camargue Alsacienne, 6 km north of...

PhD position in Reality Capture for Real Estate Valuation

PhD position in Reality Capture for Real Estate ValuationDo you want to be part of the circular revolution to rethink the way we value the built environment? Join us as a fully-funded doctoral cand...

Doctoral Student: Sensing and Controlling the Large-Scale Anaerobic Digestion of Human Excreta to Minimize Health Risks and Carbon Emissions

Doctoral Student: Sensing and Controlling the Large-Scale Anaerobic Digestion of Human Excreta to Minimize Health Risks and Carbon EmissionsJoin the Global Health Engineering group at ETH Zürich Th...

PhD Position in Chemical Biology 2025

PhD Position in Chemical Biology 2025The research group for Chemical Biology and Molecular Imaging (Frei Research Group) at ETH Zurich is looking for a doctoral researcher to develop chemistry insp...

Doctoral candidate in cartography / geovisualization / storytelling

Doctoral candidate in cartography / geovisualization / storytellingThe Institute of Cartography and Geoinformation (IKG) at ETH Zurich is one of the oldest university institutes for cartography in ...

PhD position in Artificial Photosynthesis at University of Basel / SNI

The Yao Group at the Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position in the cutting-edge field of Artificial Photosynthesis, supported by the ...

PhD position in nonlinear laser spectroscopy on novel types of ferroic order and domains

PhD position in nonlinear laser spectroscopy on novel types of ferroic order and domainsIn the Laboratory for Functional Ferroic Materials we investigate materials where strong coupling between ele...

PhD position in Computer Science for Circular Construction

PhD position in Computer Science for Circular ConstructionThe Chair of Circular Engineering for Architecture (CEA) is seeking a highly motivated and qualified PhD candidate in the field of digital ...

PhD on Occupant-centric flexibility quantification and dispatch

Phd candidate to investigate the impact of consumer flexibility on planning of multi-energy districts, doctoral position on macromolecular engineering of covalent adaptable networks.

Doctoral position on Macromolecular engineering of covalent adaptable networksThe Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory (Prof. Mark W. Tibbitt) within the Department of Mechanical and Process Engin...

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PhD Position in Machine Learning and Computer Vision

Positions: We have an opening for a PhD position in the areas of machine learning and computer vision. The position is supported financially by a SNSF project, whose aim is to build con- trollable world models with deep learning methods. World mod...

PhD in Machine Learning for 3D Computer Vision

PhD in Machine Learning for 3D Computer VisionThe Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing Group at ETH (Prof. Konrad Schindler)  is seeking applications for a doctoral candidate. Our research revolves ar...

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PhD student Snow Hydrology “Improved snowmelt forecasts for hydropower production planning”

The WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF is part of the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL and thus of the ETH Domain. WSL focuses on the sustainable u...

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phd student salary in switzerland

Master, PhD and Postdoc Scholarships

Comparison of Salary of PhD Students in Europe

This post concerns the Comparison of the Salary of PhD Students in Europe. The purpose of this post is to compare the salaries of PhD students in Europe. The table includes ten countries in Western Europe. In this post, the salaries of PhD students in different European countries including Denmark , Germany , Switzerland , Sweden , Finland , Austria , Norway , Ireland , France , Netherlands and the UK . are compared.

A comparison of the salaries of PhD students in Europe

In the chart below you will find the minimum and maximum gross (before tax) salaries for PhDs in various European countries. The list will grow as more countries are added. PhD students in Europe earn varying salaries depending on the country, the institution they are affiliated with, and their field of study. We, therefore, present a table showing the minimum and maximum before-tax salaries of PhD students in Europe.

Comparison of PhD students’ minimum salaries (before tax) in Europe

The average minimum salary for a PhD student in Europe is €2,600 per month. It is important to note that this figure includes all the different fields and not just science or engineering. The values listed here include the minimum salaries of PhD scholarships and funded positions.

The average salary for a PhD student in Europe varies depending on the country as well as the university. The highest average salary was found in Denmark with €49,802 per year and the lowest was found in Ireland with €16,000 per year.

Chart of Comparison of PhD students’ Minimum Yearly Salaries (before tax) in Europe

Comparison of PhD students' minimum yearly salaries (before tax) in Europe

Comparison of PhD students’ maximum salaries (before tax) in Europe

The average maximum salary for a PhD student in Europe is around €3,500 per month. The figure in this table includes all different fields, not just science or engineering. It also includes the maximum salaries of PhD scholarships and funded positions.

Chart of Comparison of PhD students’ Maximum Yearly Salaries (before tax) in Europe

Chart of Comparison of PhD students' maximum yearly salaries (before tax) in Europe

This chart compares the minimum and maximum PhD salaries (before taxes) in different European countries.

It is very interesting that even though Denmark has the highest minimum PhD salaries, Switzerland has the highest maximum PhD salaries. It shows that the salary of a PhD student in Switzerland could differ significantly among Swiss universities.

phd student salary in switzerland

Remarks about the salary of PhD students in Germany and the UK

Regarding the table above, there are a few remarks. Germany does not have a minimum salary for PhD students, so they could do their PhD without a salary. Furthermore, if PhD students receive a stipend or scholarship, the numbers might be very different (generally lower than the salaries listed above). Throughout the UK, the values in the table represent the annual stipend of PhD students. Since this is a stipend, the student does not pay any taxes on it, so we can also call it after-tax income. The last thing to note is that the maximum value is more reserved for exceptional cases (especially in Switzerland). We recommend you read the salary pages of each country if you want to know the exact salary allocation and the details.

Interested in discovering the salary figures for PhD and postdoctoral positions in Europe?:

PhD Salary in Denmark

Postdoc salary in denmark.

  • Salary of a PhD student and Postdoc in Norway
  • PhD Salary in Switzerland
  • Salary ladder for PhD students in Sweden
  • Salary of PhD student and Postdoc in Germany
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Fully Funded PhD Positions with Salary

  • Germany – Fully Funded PhD
  • Switzerland – Fully Funded PhD
  • Denmark – Fully Funded PhD
  • UK – Fully Funded PhD
  • Sweden – Fully Funded PhD
  • Finland – Fully Funded PhD
  • Netherlands – Fully Funded PhD
  • Norway – Fully Funded PhD
  • Belgium – Fully Funded PhD
  • Austria – Fully Funded PhD
  • Australia – Fully Funded PhD
  • France – Fully Funded PhD
  • New Zealand – Fully Funded PhD
  • Canada – Fully Funded PhD
  • USA – Fully Funded PhD
  • Luxembourg – Fully Funded PhD
  • Spain – Fully Funded PhD
  • Italy – Fully Funded PhD
  • Iceland -Fully Funded PhD

All academic positions (the latest ones) will be updated by the Fastepo Team. Also, please follow our Facebook page to not miss any new vacancies. Alternatively, if you don’t enjoy reading text, check out our YouTube channel for videos about PhDs and Postdocs.

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PhD and Postdoc in Switzerland in 2023: Salary and Living Expenses

Switzerland is known for its research and innovation, and it is no wonder that PhD study in Switzerland is highly sought after. PhD and Postdoc salary Switzerland is among the highest in the world in 2023. However, the cost of living and the expenses can be quite high, so it is important to know what to expect before embarking on this academic journey. In this blog post, we will delve into the salary, tax, and expenses of PhD students in Switzerland.

Salary of PhD Students in Switzerland

The average salary of PhD students in Switzerland is CHF 50,000 per year, which translates to CHF 4,167 per month. However, the actual salary can vary depending on the institution and the student’s position, and it can range between CHF 37,795 and CHF 86,960. It is important to note that the net salary (take-home money) of PhD students is certainly less than the gross salary shown above, as there are several deductions from the monthly salary.

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PhD Students’ Salary at ETHZ

A PhD student at ETH Zurich can expect a salary between CHF 59,000 to CHF 83,000 per year, depending on the funding of their institute, the professor they work with, and the rate they are assigned. The standard rate is 60% of a full salary, which can increase up to 100% with Rate 5. However, most PhD students are assigned Rate 4 or 5, and the salary is not regularly adjusted but may change if there is a change in the regulations of the Swiss National Science Foundation. Additionally, the salary is generally higher for IT PhDs than for Bio PhDs. The AHV contribution will be paid out once the individual retires. Lastly, a recent announcement mentions that there will be a salary increase of 2.5 percent as of March 2023.

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PhD Students’ Salary at EPFL

According to the official website of EPFL , the basic starting salary of an EPFL doctoral assistant in 2023 is CHF 54’000.- gross per annum. The full salary scale is available on the same webpage. Additionally, there is a fellowship program called EPFLinnovators which provides a monthly contribution of EUR 1’855 to the salary of the doctoral candidate at EPFL in 2023. The remaining part of the salary is the responsibility of the thesis director, and co-funding cannot come from projects requiring timekeeping.

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Taxation is mandatory in Switzerland for PhD students, and it is the same for all students. The amount of tax paid by PhD students in Switzerland can vary depending on various factors such as the canton of residence, the marital status of the student, and the student’s income. As a foreigner doing a PhD in Switzerland, one may be entitled to tax deductions, but this depends on individual circumstances. It is recommended to seek professional advice to fully understand the tax implications of being a PhD student in Switzerland.

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Salary of Postdoc in Switzerland

Postdoctoral research is a significant step in a research career for many individuals. Switzerland is among the top destinations for postdoctoral researchers due to its well-established universities and research institutes. Many researchers aim to pursue postdoc positions in Switzerland, which raises the question of how much they can earn. In this blog post, we will explore the salary of postdocs in Switzerland based on the provided search results.

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According to the search results, the average postdoc salary in Switzerland is CHF 80,000 per year or CHF 41.03 per hour. However, the salary can vary based on several factors such as the age and experience of the candidate, the institution, and the area. Entry-level positions start at CHF 72,638 per year, while the most experienced workers can earn up to CHF 92,583 per year.

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The salary also varies depending on the field of research. For instance, a postdoc position in the Stochastic Information Processing Group at the University of Geneva in machine learning for imaging, generative modeling, and data analysis in radio-astronomy offers a salary of CHF 85,000 per year. However, it is worth noting that the salary provided by the Stochastic Information Processing Group may not represent the average postdoc salary in Switzerland.

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It is also essential to consider the net salary of postdocs, which is the amount they earn after taxes. For example, a fully employed postdoc’s annual gross salary is CHF 95,000, which translates to around CHF 7,900 per month. However, after tax deductions, the net monthly salary is CHF 3,330.85. The net salary can vary based on the individual’s tax situation, marital status, and the number of children.

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Additionally, it is crucial to consider the cost of living in Switzerland. While the salary of postdocs in Switzerland is relatively high, the cost of living in Switzerland is also relatively high. For instance, a postdoc earning CHF 75,000 to 80,000 per year should be okay for a single person living in Geneva, Lausanne, or Zurich, considering the cost of living. It is advisable to consider the cost of housing, food, transportation, and other expenses when planning to live in Switzerland.

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Expenses and Cost of Living In Switzerland

The cost of living in Switzerland is relatively high, even compared to other countries in Western Europe. Accommodation is one of the most significant expenses for PhD students in Switzerland, and the cost can vary depending on the accommodation type and location. On average, one can expect to pay around CHF 700 per month for accommodation. Other expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities can also add up, and it is recommended to budget accordingly. Note that In comparison to other cities, Zurich is more expensive than 98% of cities in the world, and is the most expensive city in Switzerland and Western Europe. It is 28.8% more expensive than New York City without rent, based on Numbeo’s cost of living index.

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Swiss Government Excellence scholarships for foreign scholars 2025-2026 (Incoming) - open to LAC

CH - Swiss Government Excellence fellowship

Each year the Swiss Confederation awards Government Excellence Scholarships to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries. Recipients are selected by the awarding body, the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS).

Who is eligible

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are aimed at young researchers from abroad who have completed a master’s degree or PhD.

What is offered

The research scholarship ( research fellowship ,  PhD ,  Postdoc ) is available to post-graduate researchers in any discipline (who hold a master’s degree is the minimum qualification required) who are planning to go to Switzerland to pursue research or further studies at doctoral or post-doctoral level.

Research scholarships are awarded for research or study at all Swiss cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences and the two federal institutes of technology, as well as the four research institutes. Only candidates nominated by an academic supervisor at one of these higher education institutions will be considered.

Types of research scholarships:

1 - Research fellowships

  • To enable selected applicants to undertake postgraduate research in the realm of their PhD at one of the Swiss public universities, the Swiss federal institutes of technology, the Graduate Institute, the universities of applied sciences, or the public teaching and research institutes.
  • Valid for full-time research in Switzerland only.

Target Group

  • Highly qualified postgraduate researchers from all academic fields as well as young medical doctors.
  • Primarily for scholars who have not already been to Switzerland.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Master’s degree or equivalent achieved before 31 July 2025 (except: ETH Zurich: 30 June 2025). Degree certificate completed.
  • Applicants must be born after 31 December 1989.
  • A research proposal including a timeframe.
  • Mandatory letter from an academic host professor (including their short CV).
  • Scholarship starts for the academic year 2025-26: 1 September 2025.
  • 12 months maximum (starting in September).
  • No prolongation possible.
  • The scholarship amounts to a monthly payment of CHF 1’920.-
  • The scholarship amount covers the living costs of one person only.
  • This scholarship is not a salary.

2 - PhD scholarships

  • To enable selected applicants to undertake a PhD at one of the Swiss public universities, the Swiss federal institutes of technology or the Graduate Institute.
  • Highly qualified postgraduate students (possessing the required degrees to start a PhD).
  • Master’s degree or equivalent university degree achieved before 31 July 2025 (except: ETH Zurich: 30 June 2025). Degree certificate completed.
  • Mandatory letter from an academic host professor (including their short CV). 
  • 12 months (starting in September).
  • Prolongable up to 36 months. The scholarship is awarded in three steps of 12 months each based on the achieved academic results.

3 - Postdoctoral scholarships

  • To enable selected applicants to undertake postdoctoral research at one of the Swiss public universities, the Swiss federal institutes of technology, the Graduate Institute, the universities of applied sciences or the public teaching and research institutes.  
  • Valid for full-time research in Switzerland only. 
  • Highly qualified early career scientists on postdoctoral level.
  • Primarily for scholars who have not already been to Switzerland. 
  • PhD degree achieved after 31 December 2021 and before 31 July 2025 (except: ETH Zurich: 30 June 2025). PhD degree certificate completed.
  • Scholarship starts for the academic year 2025-26:  1 September 2025.
  • The scholarship amounts to a monthly payment of CHF 3’500.-

4- Art scholarships

Art scholarships  are open to art students wishing to pursue an initial master’s degree in Switzerland. Art scholarships are awarded for study at any Swiss conservatory or university of the arts. This scholarship is available to students from a limited number of countries only. No Latin American countries eligible in this call.

How to apply

1. Select your country of origin according to your passport. For South American countries, you can find the list here .

2. Find out about the types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria and application deadlines for your country. For more information and questions, please contact the address provided in the  list of contacts .

3. Download the  Application Package .

4. Read the  Application Guidelines  and follow the instructions. Prepare your application and submit two complete copies to the relevant office in your country of origin according to the  list of contacts by the deadline.

Deadline: vary from country to country, ranging from October to December 2024.

More information

Read our Focus here to learn more about Switzerland research landscape

IMAGES

  1. PhD and Postdoc Salary in Switzerland

    phd student salary in switzerland

  2. Salary of PhD students in Switzerland

    phd student salary in switzerland

  3. Doctoral Student Salaries

    phd student salary in switzerland

  4. Comparison of Salary of PhD Students in Europe

    phd student salary in switzerland

  5. The Average Salary Of PhD Students At ETH Zurich

    phd student salary in switzerland

  6. Comparison of Salary of PhD Students in Europe

    phd student salary in switzerland

COMMENTS

  1. Salary

    These salaries have to be actively adjusted and they are increased as and when the project funding situation allows. From 1 July 2020, it is required to top up the salaries of new doctoral students with a scholarship to the lowest salary level (standard rate), which may not be lower than this. In addition, a salary development must be provided for.

  2. Doctoral Students' Salary ‒ Doctorate ‐ EPFL

    The basic starting salary of an EPFL doctoral assistant is CHF 54'550.- gross per annum (valid from 01.01.2024). The full salary scale is available here. A registration fee (at the beginning of your studies), and a doctoral tax (at the completion of your studies) are charged (see Ordonnance sur les taxes and the webpage « Doctoral Studies »).

  3. phd candidate salaries in Switzerland

    Doctoral students in Switzerland receive, as a guideline, between CHF 3,920 and CHF 6,690 gross per month, based on a 100% employment rate.; The median salary (50% earn more and 50% earn less) is CHF 53,000 gross per year and CHF 4,417 per month.; Depending on the institution and field of research and depending on how the PhD is funded (SNF-scholarship, assistanceship etc.), the loan can have ...

  4. PhD In Switzerland: Everything You Need To Know

    The average PhD student salary in Switzerland is around CHF 50,000 per year. However, if not fully employed, the pay will be accordingly less. Postdoc salary in Switzerland. The median postdoctoral salary in Switzerland is around CHF 80,000 per year. Entry-level positions start at CHF 43,200 per year, while most experienced workers make up to ...

  5. Salary: Phd Student in Switzerland 2024

    The estimated total pay for a Phd Student is CHF 57,050 per year in the Switzerland area, with an average salary of CHF 54,550 per year. These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The estimated additional pay is CHF 2,500 ...

  6. Salary of PhD students in Switzerland

    Gross salary of PhD students in Switzerland. According to the ETHZ website, the salary rates for doctoral students are as follows (rates in CHF): Rates. 1st year. 2nd year. 3rd year. Standard. 47040. 48540.

  7. Employment and salary

    PhD students and postdocs from abroad find more information on employment and the salary rates on the Welcome Center website. Established researchers are assigned to a function level. Their salary varies within the corresponding performance range and is paid out in 13 monthly instalments. An appraisal interview is held each year, in which the ...

  8. Phd Student Salary in Switzerland

    The average phd student salary in Switzerland is CHF 50'000 per year or CHF 25.64 per hour. Entry-level positions start at CHF 48'540 per year, while most experienced workers make up to CHF 56'750 per year.

  9. Salary: Phd Student in Lausanne, Switzerland 2024

    The estimated total pay for a PhD Student is CHF 55,820 per year in the Lausanne, Switzerland area, with an average salary of CHF 53,861 per year. These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users.

  10. Salary: Phd Student in Geneva, Switzerland 2024

    The average salary for a PhD Student is CHF 52,000 per year in Geneva, Switzerland. Salaries estimates are based on 110 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a PhD Student employees in Geneva, Switzerland.

  11. PDF Annex 12: Salary scales for doctoral students, salary ranges and ...

    The following salary scales are minimum annual gross salaries, excluding social security contri-butions made by the employer: 1st year. CHF 47,040. 2nd year. CHF 48,540. 3rd and 4th years. CHF 50,040. The length of employment funded by the SNSF is a maximum of four years following matriculation in the case of doctoral students.

  12. Doctoral Student Salaries

    Jan 2023. D-BIOL and D-GESS departments with all PhD students at standard level give out bonus 1000 CHF payment to their doctoral students. Mar 2023. SNF 2.5% adjustment for all doctoral salaries. Jan - Oct 2023. Working group with AVETH, VPPL and departments discusses options for doctoral salary system. AVETH argues our case, prepares and ...

  13. Phd Salary in Switzerland

    The average phd salary in Switzerland is CHF 50'000 per year or CHF 25.64 per hour. ... The Idiap Research Institute seeks qualified candidates for two PhD student positions in the field of speech signal processing and machine learning for pathological speech enhancement. The successful PhD candidate will develop model-based and deep learning ...

  14. Doctorate (PhD) Salary in Switzerland

    Doctorate (PhD) - Salary - Get a free salary comparison based on job title, skills, experience and education. Accurate, reliable salary and compensation comparisons for Switzerland

  15. PhD Students and Postdocs

    The annual salary is paid in 13 monthly installments, with the 13th installment added to the November salary. ... 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland +41 56 310 21 11. Contact form. Useful links. How to find us; Research. Research To overview. ... Information for PhD students and postdocs; Professional Development Support for PhD Students and Postdocs;

  16. 43 PhD jobs in Switzerland

    International Fully Funded PhD Positions in the Life Sciences in Switzerland. *New application deadlines for two open calls per year: November 1 and May 1!Life Science Zurich Graduate School offers more than 100 funded PhD positions. With around 500 research groups and more than 1600 Ph.D. students, the Life Science Zurich ...

  17. Salary: Phd in Switzerland 2024

    CHF 70K. /yr. CHF 51KCHF 100K. Most Likely Range. The estimated salary for a PhD is CHF 70,150 per year in the Switzerland area. This number represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users.

  18. PhD and Postdoc Salary in Switzerland

    Gross Salary of PhD Students and Postdoc Researchers in Switzerland. The gross salary of PhD students is around 50000 Swiss Franc (CHF) per year which means around 4200 CHF per month. However, if you are not fully employed (less than 100%), your salary will be accordingly less. A fresh postdoc earns way more than a PhD student in Switzerland.

  19. Salary rates for ETH doctoral students to be adjusted

    VPPL. Good news for doctoral students at ETH Zurich: the Swiss National Science Foundation will pay a cost-of-living adjustment as of 1 March 2023. Accordingly, ETH doctoral students are also set to receive a salary increase of 2.5 percent - with one proviso: the ETH Executive Board has yet to confirm this adjustment. 07.02.2023.

  20. Comparison of Salary of PhD Students in Europe

    Comparison of PhD students' maximum salaries (before tax) in Europe. The average maximum salary for a PhD student in Europe is around €3,500 per month. The figure in this table includes all different fields, not just science or engineering. It also includes the maximum salaries of PhD scholarships and funded positions.

  21. Universität Zürich PhD Student Salaries in Switzerland

    The estimated total pay range for a PhD Student at Universität Zürich is CHF 46K-CHF 50K per year, which includes base salary and additional pay. The average PhD Student base salary at Universität Zürich is CHF 49K per year. The average additional pay is CHF 72K per year, which could include cash bonus, stock, commission, profit sharing ...

  22. PhD and Postdoc in Switzerland in 2023: Salary and Living Expenses

    The average salary of PhD students in Switzerland is CHF 50,000 per year, which translates to CHF 4,167 per month. However, the actual salary can vary depending on the institution and the student's position, and it can range between CHF 37,795 and CHF 86,960. It is important to note that the net salary (take-home money) of PhD students is ...

  23. Swiss Government Excellence scholarships for foreign scholars 2025-2026

    Valid for full-time research in Switzerland only. Target Group. Highly qualified postgraduate students (possessing the required degrees to start a PhD). Primarily for scholars who have not already been to Switzerland. Eligibility Criteria. Master's degree or equivalent university degree achieved before 31 July 2025 (except: ETH Zurich: 30 ...