Description:

The difference-in-differences (DiD) method has become an essential tool in empirical research for identifying causal effects in complex, real-world settings. In the field of Information Systems (IS), DiD is increasingly used to examine the impact of digital interventions, policy changes, and technological disruptions. Recent studies, for example, have used DiD to assess how new AI-generated content labels influence user engagement on platforms like TikTok, how search behavior changes following the launch of AI-powered summaries in Google Search, or how regulatory events—such as new privacy laws or platform rulings—affect firm strategies and user behavior.

This master’s thesis aims to conduct a structured literature review of how DiD is applied in top-tier IS journals, including Management Science (MS), Information Systems Research (ISR), and MIS Quarterly (MISQ). The thesis should explore which types of research questions are commonly addressed using DiD, what kinds of contexts and shocks—such as platform changes, natural events, or court rulings—are examined, and what specific DiD designs are employed, including traditional two-way fixed effects, staggered designs, or synthetic control methods.

Additionally, the thesis will examine how methodological challenges are discussed in the IS literature. This includes the use of matching techniques, approaches to testing the parallel trends assumption, and the extent to which researchers assess the risk of false positives.

Objectives:

The thesis should provide IS researchers with a well-structured synthesis of how DiD is used in the field and offer valuable insights for designing future empirical studies.

Application Details:

• Deadline: May 18th
• Start: Flexible / upon agreement
• Application requirements: Please apply with your CV and Transcript of Records to is2mail-uni-mannheim.de