The Berlin School of Economics is a joint initiative of leading universities and research institutions in economic sciences in Berlin and Brandenburg. It promotes excellence in economic research and academic training through close institutional cooperation and a shared commitment to international standards. As one of the largest coordinated networks for economic research and training in Germany, the School connects scholars, disciplines, and resources across institutional boundaries.
Located in one of Europe’s most internationally connected academic environments, it provides a shared platform for collaboration, structured training, and intellectual exchange. In doing so, it strengthens the visibility and global impact of economic research in the region.
The School supports researchers at all career stages in an integrated structure: from doctoral training in its PhD Program to postdoctoral development and progression to senior academic roles within the framework of its Research Associates Program.
The two programs build on successful predecessors: the Berlin Doctoral Program in Economics and Management Science (BDPEMS), founded in 2003, and the Berlin Economics Research Associates (BERA) program, launched in 2016. Early-career researchers in the two programs benefit from close interaction with internationally recognized scholars, access to a broad academic network, and a strong emphasis on rigorous analytical and methodological training.
The structured doctoral and postdoctoral programs meet international standards and foster academic excellence across early-career stages. The School provides a rigorous and research-oriented training environment, combining advanced coursework, close mentoring, and integration into vibrant research communities to prepare its early-career researchers for successful careers in academia and beyond.
A platform for collaboration and scholarly exchange across institutions and a foundation for joint research initiatives. The School facilitates cooperation through joint seminars, scientific events, and a Discussion Paper Series, fostering intellectual interaction and strengthening research networks regionally and internationally. Building on these activities, it serves as a framework for developing and supporting collaborative research projects that extend beyond institutional boundaries.
Engagement with policy and society. The School promotes dialogue between economic research and public debate through policy-oriented initiatives, science communication, and exchange with policymakers, media, and the wider public.
The Berlin School of Economics brings together the following nine institutions that contribute their academic expertise and research infrastructure to our shared mission: European University Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, University of Potsdam, ESMT Berlin, Hertie School, ROCKWOOL Foundation Berlin (RFBerlin), and WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
