Peter Lugtig

Utrecht University’s Department of Methodology and Statistics is offering two fully funded PhD positions as part of the ERC Starting Grant project “Small Area Estimation Methods to Monitor the Progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals at the Subnational Level in the European Union (SAESDGs-EU)”. These positions focus on developing innovative small area estimation methods to produce high-quality composite SDG indicators, leveraging survey, census, and non-traditional data sources such as web and satellite data. The research aims to advance methodology with significant societal impact across the EU. The successful candidates will join a world-leading Data Quality group, supervised by Dr Angelo Moretti, Dr Camilla Salvatore, and Prof. Peter Lugtig. The group is renowned for its research in survey design, measurement error, nonresponse, data integration, register-based statistics, mixed-mode data collection, and methodological innovations for official statistics and social science research. The department offers a vibrant, collaborative environment with regular seminars, international visitors, and active participation in global research networks. PhD candidates will conduct high-quality methodological research in small area estimation, write academic articles and statistical software, and disseminate their work at conferences and events. They will be embedded in a dynamic research environment, with opportunities to engage with leading scholars, present at international conferences, and contribute to high-impact publications. Eligibility: Applicants should have a background in Statistics, Mathematical Statistics, Mathematics, or Social Statistics, or a social science background with advanced methodological statistics training. Advanced programming skills in R, Python, or MATLAB are required, along with solid knowledge of statistical inference and modelling. Proficiency in English and academic writing is essential. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of survey sampling, structural equation modelling (for the latent variables position), data integration techniques (for the multisource data position), and proficiency with GitHub. Funding: The positions are fully funded for four years, with a gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881 (full-time), 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms under the Dutch Universities CAO. Utrecht University also offers professional development opportunities and a range of employee benefits. Application: The deadline for applications is 27 April 2026. To apply, submit your CV and a letter of motivation via the Utrecht University job portal, specifying which position you are applying for. Interviews will be held in May and June 2026, with a preferred start date of 1 September 2026. For more information, visit the official job posting or contact the supervisors listed in the announcement.