Doctoral student in Resilient and Equitable Mobility Systems Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

This fully funded doctoral position at Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for research in resilient and equitable mobility systems. The role is embedded within the Division of Physical Resource Theory in Gothenburg, Sweden, and is part of the Swedish Research Council-funded DYNAMO project. The research focuses on developing dynamic synthetic populations and mobility digital twins to advance transport planning for resilience and equity. The project leverages agent-based modelling, large-scale mobility data, transport networks, generative modelling, resilience indicators, and equity analysis to understand and mitigate the impacts of disruptions on everyday travel.

As a doctoral student, you will join the STEAM group (Sustainable Transport, Energy Analytics and Modelling), which specializes in data-driven, computational, and policy-relevant approaches to transport and energy systems. The research environment is multidisciplinary, with faculty and students from engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences. The Energy, Environment, and Systems PhD program offers specializations in Energy Conversion, Industrial Energy Systems, Energy and Material Systems, Physical Resource Theory, Environmental Systems Analysis, and Complex Systems.

The DYNAMO project aims to move beyond static demand modelling by developing dynamic, behaviourally rich, and policy-relevant simulations of how different groups adapt under changing conditions. Collaborations include the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Danmarks Tekniske Universitet (DTU, Denmark), and Universidad del Desarrollo / ISI Foundation (Chile/Italy), bringing expertise in human mobility modelling, resilience science, and empirical disruption analysis using large-scale mobile phone data.

Applicants must have a master’s degree in a relevant field (engineering, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, data science, complex systems, transport systems, urban science, geography, urban planning, computational social science, or related). Strong quantitative, analytical, computational, or theoretical training is required. Meritorious qualifications include coursework or thesis work in complex systems, network science, agent-based modelling, transport modelling, urban analytics, resilience, computational social science, data science, machine learning, statistics, applied mathematics, GIS, or spatial analysis. Experience with programming, modelling, data analysis, or mathematical skills is mandatory. Very good written and spoken English is required. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment is essential. Experience with Python, R, Julia, Java, GIS tools, MATSim, transport simulation, network analysis, mobility data, transport networks, census data, geospatial data, public transport data, GPS/mobile phone data, scientific writing, open-source code, reproducible workflows, version control, or data documentation will strengthen the application.

The position is fully funded with a starting salary of 35,725 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2026), and includes all employee benefits. The appointment is fixed-term for four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, extending the position to five years. Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment, generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare, and Swedish language courses for non-native speakers. The university is committed to gender balance, equality, and inclusion.

To apply, submit your application via the online form by 2026-08-11. Attach your CV, personal letter, motivation, references, and transcripts as PDF files (max 40 MB each). Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview. For questions, contact Sonia Yeh (Professor), Jorge Gil (Associate Professor), Yuan Liao (Dr.), or Frances Sprei (Professor) via the provided emails.

Chalmers University of Technology is a leading institution in engineering, science, shipping, and architecture, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with industry and society. The university promotes scientific excellence through its eight Areas of Advance and fosters an innovative spirit in close partnership with wider society.