This fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Leuven (KU Leuven) and the Royal Museum for Central Africa (RMCA) invites applications from motivated candidates interested in environmental science, hazards, and remote sensing. The position is part of the BELSPO STEREO IV HOMER project and focuses on unravelling the dynamics of urban gully expansion in Central Africa, a rapidly growing but often overlooked hazard in tropical cities. The research will employ cutting-edge remote sensing and modelling techniques, with opportunities for impactful fieldwork in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The project is highly relevant for disaster risk reduction and urban planning, aiming to provide actionable insights for managing urban erosion hazards.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field, and possess strong quantitative skills. An interest in remote sensing or modelling is essential, and candidates should be motivated to engage in fieldwork in Central Africa. The research team is led by Associate Professor Matthias Vanmaercke (KU Leuven), with co-supervision from Olivier Dewitte and Antoine Dille (RMCA). The position offers a collaborative environment at the intersection of environmental science, geography, earth science, and urban planning.

The PhD is fully funded, though specific details on stipend and tuition are not provided in the announcement. The application deadline is 20 January 2026. For more information and to apply, candidates should visit the official KU Leuven job site. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about environmental hazards, quantitative research, and making a difference in urban sustainability and disaster risk management in Africa.