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PhD-Candidate/ Research Associate in Generative and Agentic AI and Digital Platforms (m/w/d)

100 % (starting on 01.09.2026 or by agreement, for a duration of 3.5 years)

Your tasks

This PhD position lies at the intersection of Generative and Agentic AI, digital platforms and platform ecosystems, and digital transformation in incumbent firms, making it suitable for candidates interested in either academic or industry careers. It offers the opportunity to join our research group in studying how Generative and Agentic AI shape the future of information systems and digital platforms, how these AI paradigms require architectural and governance adaptations in traditional systems and platforms, how AI paradigms and platform-based business models define new trajectories of digital transformation in incumbent firms, and how the combination of human and machine agency reshapes organizational routines and knowledge management.
With publications in top-tier journals and conferences, our research group is experienced in combining qualitative and computational approaches, including simulation and agent-based modeling, to study complex sociotechnical systems. We work closely with industry partners and develop empirically grounded theories from real-world phenomena. The PhD candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research projects, collaborate with international scholars and practitioners, and publish in leading Information Systems journals and conferences.
Your tasks
  • Conduct research on topics related to Generative and Agentic AI, digital platforms and platform ecosystems, and AI- and platform-induced digital transformation
  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative research, particularly interviews, agent-based modelling, and simulation studies
  • Perform independent project work in research areas of high theoretical and practical relevance
  • Publish in leading conferences and contribute to publications in top-tier journals
  • Support teaching activities and executive education programs

Your profile

We offer
  • A high degree of freedom combined with intensive and continuous support for research and publications throughout all stages of the PhD journey
  • Engagement with state-of-the-art topics in both research and teaching, in collaboration with international scholars, top-ranked business schools, and industry partners
  •  A highly dynamic, motivated, and supportive team environment
  •  Attractive working conditions, including flexibility and competitive salary
  • Participation in international conferences
  •  Support for post-graduation career development

 
Your profile
  • Master's degree with a grade average of at least 5.0 (equivalent to 2.0 in Germany and Austria) in Information Systems, Business Informatics, Computer Science, Business Administration (Management), or similar fields
  • Knowledge of qualitative (e.g., case study research) and quantitative methods. Programming skills, particularly in Python, are required. Experience with simulation-based research is considered a strong asset
  • Excellent command of written and spoken English. Strong academic writing and presentation skills in English are required. German fluency is considered a strong asset
  • Strong analytical and conceptual capabilities, as well as a structured, independent, and proactive working style
  • Ideally, some initial experience in scientific writing, research projects, or relevant professional experience

 
The PhD candidate will be affiliated with the Institute of Information Systems and Digital Business (IWI-HSG), one of the largest institutes at the University of St. Gallen. At IWI-HSG, we have been researching business models and the application of digital technologies for more than 30 years. The main research theme of Prof. Dr. Kazem Haki's group is complex sociotechnical systems. Currently, the group conducts research in three areas related to this theme: digital platforms and platform ecosystems, Generative and Agentic AI, and computationally intensive theory construction.
We are looking forward to your online-application stating the job ID
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Inspirational Work Environment

Inspirational Work Environment

Executive Education

Executive Education

Network

Network

Family & Career

Family & Career

Equal Opportunities

Equal Opportunities

Fit and Healthy

Fit and Healthy

Inspirational Work Environment

Inspirational Work Environment

At the HSG, as Europe's leading business university, we operate in an entrepreneurial environment where you will meet highly qualified, ambitious experts - both regionally and internationally. For example, you benefit from a modern IT infrastructure and, in our library via HSGswisscovery, from nationwide access to the wealth of scientific information available.

Executive Education

Executive Education

We support internal and external executive education opportunities. Our internal executive education programme offers you a practical, dedicated and didactically mature transfer of knowledge in the form of seminars, e-learning, coaching and collegial advice. We support task-specific external training and executive education financially as well as with regard to the time required.

Network

Network

We promote our culture of cross-functional collaboration and create space for forging valuable relationships - also with external partners. Regular exchanges and internal events help to strengthen these relationships and make them long-lasting.

Family & Career

Family & Career

We provide our employees with flexible work time models with a variable number of hours per week. As a family-friendly employer, we offer part-time positions, 16 weeks of maternity leave and a subsidised crèche, as well as support with childcare during the vacations.

Equal Opportunities

Equal Opportunities

The University enables equal opportunities for all employees and students. This applies to degree courses and work, as well as academic careers, university management positions and the reconciliation of studies, work and private commitments. We are committed to this with various measures in the areas of teaching, research, administration and the Presidency.

Fit and Healthy

Fit and Healthy

We help you stay fit and healthy. In addition to our diverse range of sports activities at the university, most of which are free of charge, and campaign weeks for corporate health management, we also offer you fruit in the workplace. In our canteen you will find a wide selection of freshly prepared meals - from vegetarian to fish dishes - at discounted prices.

Further information on working at the HSG can be found here.

For job-related questions

Prof. Dr. Kazem Haki
Associate Professor of Information Systems

We are looking for curious researchers who are excited to combine theoretical depth with real-world relevance and contribute to understanding the future of intelligent sociotechnical systems.


Prof. Dr. Reinhard Jung
Full Professor of Business Engineering

Be part of innovative research exploring the evolving role of AI and digital platforms in shaping the future of business.

Your place of work

University of St.Gallen

«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 10'000 students. The HSG is one of the largest employers in the region and provides an attractive and innovative environment for more than 3'500 researchers, educators and professional staff.