PhD Position in Spatial Statistics at Umeå University Umeå University in Sweden

Umeå University, one of Sweden’s largest and most dynamic higher education institutions, is renowned for its world-leading research and vibrant academic environment. The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics is offering a fully funded PhD position in spatial statistics, focusing on the development of adaptive statistical models for marked spatial and spatio-temporal point processes. The university’s cohesive campus and open culture foster collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal setting for doctoral research.

The PhD project addresses the analysis of spatial data, which arises in various forms such as areal data, geostatistical measurements, and point pattern data. Point pattern data, where the primary information is the location of events within a spatial region and often over time, is central to the project. Applications span diverse fields, including ecology (animal observations, tree positions), epidemiology (disease cases), urban studies (crime incidents, traffic events), and environmental science. The research aims to develop flexible models that capture spatial heterogeneity and temporal variation, allowing event occurrence patterns, mark behaviour, and interactions to vary locally and evolve over time. The project will involve model development, statistical inference, diagnostic methods, and application to real datasets characterized by non-stationarity and evolving dynamics.

As a doctoral student, you will be admitted to the PhD program in Computational Mathematics and Statistics. The position covers four years of full-time doctoral studies, including participation in research and doctoral courses. Teaching or departmental duties may be included, but will not exceed 20% of the full-time post. Employment commences in the fall of 2026 or by agreement, and salary is set according to the university’s PhD salary ladder.

Applicants must hold a second-cycle degree or equivalent, with at least 240 ECTS credits (including 60 at the second-cycle level). Specific entry requirements include at least 90 ECTS credits in computational mathematics and statistics (including mathematical statistics, mathematics, computer science, and related fields), with at least 30 ECTS credits at the second-cycle level. Good programming skills in R are required, and documented knowledge of spatial statistics, stochastic processes, and point process modelling is considered a merit. Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, is essential. Candidates should be motivated, have a genuine interest in methodological research, and possess strong communication and collaborative skills.

Umeå University values diversity and gender balance, and female applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. The university is located in Umeå, a lively and creative city in northern Sweden, known for its cultural activities, friendly atmosphere, and proximity to nature. The city offers a comfortable and safe living environment, with easy access to forest paths, rivers, lakes, and winter activities.

To apply, submit your application via the university’s recruitment system by April 30th, 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, authenticated degree certificates and transcripts, relevant work (such as thesis or articles), GMAT/GRE and TOEFL/IELTS scores if available, and contact details for at least two references. For further information, contact Mehdi Moradi at [email protected] or visit the department’s website.

Join Umeå University and contribute to cutting-edge research in spatial statistics, while enjoying a supportive academic environment and the unique lifestyle of northern Sweden.