PhD Student Position in Data Science – KU Leuven

The ORSTAT research group at the Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven, Belgium, invites applications for a PhD student position in Data Science. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in advanced statistical and machine learning methods, particularly for analyzing and forecasting traffic safety outcomes. The research will focus on developing and applying statistical and machine learning techniques for time series prediction, with a primary application in road safety. Specific research cases will be selected during the PhD, covering topics such as regional differences, road types, user categories, assessment of safety interventions, and risk factors. Supervised by Professors Filip Van den Bossche and Christophe Croux, the successful candidate will contribute to data collection initiatives and advanced data analysis in the broad field of road safety. The research aims to produce top-level publications and presentations at international conferences, with potential impact for policy makers. The position also includes opportunities to guide Bachelor’s and Master’s students, participate in teaching activities, and supervise exams. Applicants should have recently obtained or be about to graduate in 2026 with a master’s degree in Business Engineering, Business and Information Systems Engineering, Statistics and Data Science, Mathematics, (Business) Economics, or a similar field. Excellent academic results (cum laude – distinction, or higher) are required. Experience with programming languages such as R and/or Python is an asset. Candidates must demonstrate independent research ability, teamwork skills, and excellent English communication. Enrollment in the PhD program (21 ECTS coursework) is required, along with willingness to participate in international seminars and conferences. The offer includes a full-time PhD position for one year, starting September 15, 2026, renewable up to four years upon successful annual evaluations. The position provides a correct and beneficial salary, a dynamic and pleasant working environment, and numerous opportunities for personal growth, including conference participation, doctoral schools, and publication. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a socially safe and supportive workplace. Applications should be submitted via KU Leuven’s online platform, including a motivation letter, CV, and university diploma copies with transcripts. For more information, contact Prof. Filip Van den Bossche at [email protected].