Doing Research with us
The Esade PhD Program aims to prepare and nurture ambitious academics trained in cutting-edge research, who will contribute to advance the frontiers of research in all fields of social sciences.
PhD students can choose to follow the Management or the Economics/Finance research track. The Economics/Finance specialization provides an in-depth knowledge of Economics, Research Methods and Econometrics, Market Microstructure, Corporate Finance, Banking and Accounting, which allows students to successfully pursue their related research interests. In addition, students can take the elective courses they find useful for their research.
The research in Economics, Finance and Accounting addresses a large spectrum of topics including but not limited to:
- Market and regulatory-based incentives for green investment, Social and Governance (ESG) financial disclosure & green investments.
- Market participants' strategic behaviour and the role of information in investors’ decisions.
- The impact of accounting information on financial market participants and other users.
- Work in inequality, including some of its connections with the design of the education system.
The choice of alternative paths to development, and the design and implementation of macroeconomic policy.
Call for applicants in Economics
At GREF we are hiring a PhD student to start no later than the 1st of March, 2025. The position is part of a funded project on modern economic transformations and offers a full-time fellowship in a dynamic research environment.
Applications are open until December 31, 2024.
For more details, download the requirements.
PhD in Management Sciences
The PhD program provides analytical training in research skills and methodology, enabling participants to become leaders in management research.
Why do a PhD with an Economics/Finance Specialization at Esade?
Testimonies from former PhD Candidates
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![Marco Errico]()
Assistant Professor, Tilburg University.
I am deeply thankful for the opportunities and support provided to me by Esade and the GREF group during my PhD. From day one, I was given the freedom to explore and pursue my research interests in the accounting discipline, and I have been exposed to an international and diverse group of scholars. Collaborating with my colleagues, who bring expertise in economics and finance, has been instrumental in overcoming challenges in my research. Moreover, my supervisor as well as the whole Esade community have been remarkably supportive, providing opportunities to present my work at international and leading conferences, and to visit leading research institutions in the accounting field as a visiting scholar. The PhD program at ESADE has been a unique experience, both personally and professionally. The supportive and stimulating academic environment has encouraged me to set high goals and continuously aspire for growth.
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![Mohammed Zakriya]()
Associate Professor of Finance, IESEG
For someone specializing in Finance, being a part of Esade and the GREF group was fundamental to make my PhD experience incredibly enriching and fulfilling. I benefited from the expertise of the faculty members, including my supervisor, who provided me with timely feedback, guidance and support. Interacting with a diverse group of researchers with expertise in different verticals within economics, finance, and accounting helped me to view and understand my own research domain from multiple perspectives. There was ample research funding, which allowed me to attend conferences and PhD symposia all across the globe. The GREF also hosted several seminars and workshops featuring prominent researchers, which were invaluable opportunities to learn and network.
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![Menna El Hefnawy]()
Assistant Professor of Finance, CUNEF
At Esade, I received the full support during my PhD journey starting from the wide scope of GREF Faculty specializing in different areas of Economics, Finance and Accounting, and ending with a successful PhD dissertation that was awarded the Extraordinary Doctoral Award from Ramon Llull University. The interaction with my advisor was extremely efficient and beneficial. The GREF weekly seminars were a valuable asset where I got the opportunity to meet many scholars from around the world. As a presenter in these seminars, I could also benefit from very constructive comments and suggestions. Thanks to GREF and the PhD program’s support, I was able to present my work in international conferences in Europe and US and got invited to give seminars at several universities. The PhD program also encourages an international visiting research period which helps elevating the research quality and expanding the network. The GREF group also provided very helpful training to help PhD candidates preparing for the “roller-coaster” finance job market.
Testimonies from former Postdoctoral researchers
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![Erfan Ghofrani]()
Financial Economist, World Federation of Exchanges
My post-doctoral experience at Esade was a transformative period that significantly enriched my academic and professional journey. It provided a unique opportunity to delve into research on ESG, firm dynamics, and supply chain issues, which have since become central to my career path. The unwavering support and encouragement from the GREF team were instrumental in boosting my confidence and enabling me to push the boundaries of my research. Esade’s extensive resources, including access to diverse data sources, create an ideal environment for scholars to pursue innovative research. Additionally, teaching various courses was a deeply rewarding experience, allowing me to engage with talented students and contribute meaningfully to their academic development. Overall, Esade is a remarkable institution that blends academic excellence with a collaborative atmosphere, making it an exceptional place for anyone looking to advance their research and professional growth.
