Fully Funded PhD Positions in Climate Risk, Banking Analytics, and Advanced Machine Learning at Western University

Western University in Canada is offering several fully funded PhD positions in the areas of Climate Risk, Banking Analytics, Credit Risk, and Advanced Machine Learning. These positions are part of the Banking Analytics Lab and Statistical and Actuarial Sciences department, with strong industry collaboration and access to unique datasets and high-performance computing resources. The research focus includes integrating climate variables and scenario projections into financial risk models, developing multimodal deep learning approaches for credit risk, and advancing methods in financial stability and risk assessment. Projects will leverage alternative data sources, network-based stress testing, and robust optimization techniques, with direct applications in banking, finance, and regulation. Successful candidates will conduct research at the intersection of applied probability, econometrics, machine learning, statistics, stochastic control, and banking. The work involves developing deep learning models and network-based stress testing tools, assessing risk propagation and financial contagion, and integrating climate scenario projections into financial risk assessment for institutional investing and regulatory stress testing. The program offers direct collaboration opportunities with major banks, pension funds, data vendors, and regulatory bodies, as well as annual funds for conference travel and research expenses. Applicants must have a Master's degree in a relevant field such as statistics, operations research, computer science, economics, applied mathematics, or mathematical finance. Strong quantitative and programming skills are required, with experience in Python and modern data science tools considered a strong plus. Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated interest in banking, financial, or mathematical finance applications are essential. The program requires maintaining a minimum 'B' average, passing qualifying and comprehensive exams, and successfully defending a thesis proposal. The funding package guarantees a minimum annual stipend of CAD $30,000 for four years, with additional support for research and travel. Tuition and ancillary fees are to be paid each semester, and financial support is distributed throughout the semester. The positions are open to applicants worldwide, and the lab values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. To apply, candidates should submit a CV, academic transcripts, and reference letters via Western University's graduate portal by January 31, 2026. GRE scores should be mentioned if available. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in February 2026. For more information, applicants can contact the supervisors, Prof. Cristián Bravo ([email protected]) for banking analytics and Prof. Ankush Agarwal ([email protected]) for climate risk, or visit the program website for further details.