Funded PhD in Intelligent Mining Transport Systems and Data-Driven Modeling at Université Laval Université Laval in Canada

Université Laval’s Intelligent Mining Operations & Monitoring Laboratory (IMOM Lab) is recruiting a funded PhD student for research on intelligent mine transport systems and data-driven modeling.

The project focuses on developing analytical, computational, and AI-based approaches to better understand and improve mine haulage operations, with relevance to conventional manned systems, emerging unmanned operations, low-carbon transport, and sustainable mining.

Research directions may include mine truck haulage performance evaluation, prediction and optimization; lower-CO2-emission strategies and clean technologies for mine transport systems; methods supporting the transition from conventional manned haulage to emerging unmanned operations; and collaboration with faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, and external research or industry partners.

The position is supervised by Dr. Chengkai Fan and Dr. Simon Dumais. The expected start date is Fall 2026 or Winter 2027.

Funding is strong: the student will receive full scholarship support for up to four years, covering tuition and living expenses. Additional support may be available for Teaching Assistant roles and for internal/external scholarships and awards.

Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree in Mining Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a closely related field; a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent; strong academic background and research interest; IELTS 6.5 or equivalent English proficiency; and experience with Python, R, MATLAB, or similar data-analysis/programming tools. Physics-informed machine learning experience is an asset.

To apply, submit a single PDF with a cover letter, CV, transcripts, and supporting materials by May 31, 2026.