Fully Funded PhD Positions in GeoAI and Spatial Data Science at the University of Iowa University of Iowa in United States

Two fully funded PhD positions are available in GeoAI and spatial data science at the University of Iowa, in the School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability.

The positions are in a new research group led by Peng Luo, whose work sits at the intersection of GIScience, GeoAI, and geospatial analytics. The advertised research directions are:

• Trustworthy GeoAI — spatially explicit modeling, explainability, and uncertainty quantification in GeoAI.
• Multi-Agent GeoAI Modeling — LLM-driven, multi-agent frameworks for automated geospatial model discovery and reasoning.

The opportunity is aimed at students with a background in GIScience, Computer Science, Statistics, Remote Sensing, or a related field. Strong programming skills and a genuine interest in spatial data science and AI are important. Prior research experience is welcome but not required.

The positions are fully funded, with stipend and tuition coverage. The post indicates a Fall 2027 start.

Applicants should apply to the Ph.D. in Geography program (GIScience track) at the University of Iowa. Formal applications are submitted online through the university admissions system, with supporting materials uploaded in the MyUI portal after applying. Required materials include a CV, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts; an optional writing sample is also welcome.

Before applying, candidates are asked to email [email protected] with their CV, transcripts, and a brief statement of research interests, mentioning which research direction they prefer.

The deadline shown on the opportunities page is December 1 for admission the following fall, and applicants are encouraged to apply by that date for full funding consideration.