IFN wants to reach future researchers interested in high quality research with major relevance for Swedish industry and trade.
There are several ways to become a researcher in economics. Firstly, beginning doctoral studies and during the thesis work be associated with IFN. Secondly, start working as a research assistant at IFN and subsequently apply for doctoral studies. Choosing this way you often get inspiration at IFN on the subject for the thesis. Thirdly, receiving a postdoc position at IFN.
Most of the time a researcher works at IFN for a number of years and after that is appointed professor at a university or go on as an expert to the private or public sector.
The research at IFN focuses on five areas/programs:
IFN is one of Sweden’s leading research institutes within the field of economics. Currently, we have about 30 researchers with doctoral degrees researching within the programs above. In addition, we have a number of single research projects.
IFN is a private and non-profit foundation. This we perceive as strength. Public sector grants and priorities have always played a large role in deciding the direction of Swedish economic research. In contrast, since 1939 the institute has ensured the existence of industry-specific economic research in Sweden. For example, we were among the first to study the link between entrepreneurship and economic growth.
IFN offers a work environment with plenty of time for research, a strong administrative support and excellent collaboration with the business community.
Among the 7 400 people making a doctoral degree in 2000, 2002 and 2005, almost nine out of ten had established themselves on the labour market in 2008. Around 95 per cent had a profession with the highest level of qualification requirements. A follow-up shows that, overall, about 65 per cent of the graduates are working in government, municipalities or counties, and about 35 per cent in the industry. (Swedish Higher Education Authority)