Organizational Economics, Personnel Economics, Contract Theory, Industrial Organization, Behavioral Economics

Fabian Schmitz was a PhD student at the Bonn Graduate School of Economics. After his Bachelor‘s Degree in Economics and Business Economics at Maastricht University, he completed his Master‘s Degree in Economics at the University of Bonn.

Discussion papers

• Do Non-Compete Clauses Undermine Minimum Wages?

What is the best thing about your job?

To address those topics that interest me – in particular contract theory and industrial organization – not just on a superficial level, but to explore them in depth.

If you had not gone into research, what would you be doing today?

Before my studies, I actually considered becoming a teacher for math, English, and social sciences. Alternatively, I could have imagined working at the German Federal Cartel Office or the European Competition Authority – in fact, the economic focus has always been clear.

Who or what inspires you?

Alongside my active colleagues in Bonn, the economist Paul Milgrom, the 2020 recipient of the Nobel Prize in Economics. I find it intriguing that his theoretical research on auctions in the U.S. has actually been used to design spectrum auctions.

When was the last time you had to change your mind?

For instance, at a meeting with my co-authors last week: Only because of our different approaches we are able to develop an optimal concept for our paper.

Which advice would you have needed yourself as a doctoral student?

That ideas can best be developed and improved in exchange with as many people as possible. The ECONtribute seminars taught me how to make good use of the input from feedback.