PhD Position in Database Systems for Trajectory Data Management Thurgau Institute for Digital Transformation in Switzerland

Join the Thurgau Institute for Digital Transformation (TIDIT) in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland, as a PhD student in the Data Systems group. This newly founded interdisciplinary research network offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced database systems for trajectory and spatio-temporal data. The group collaborates closely with the University of Konstanz and HTWG Konstanz, focusing on real-world applications such as urban mobility, animal behavior research, and logistics.

Trajectory data, which track the movement of objects like vehicles, people, or animals, present significant research challenges in efficient storage, complex querying, noise and uncertainty management, and privacy protection. The Data Systems group advances foundational data models, expressive query operators, federated query processing, and trajectory-aware query optimization. Research topics include designing data models and query abstractions that integrate trajectories, time series, and relational data; exploring new representations such as graph-based models; developing advanced query optimization techniques; and investigating trajectory similarity search from a data systems perspective.

As a PhD student, you will benefit from a collaborative environment at TIDIT’s lakeside campus, flexible hybrid work options, and vibrant connections to the University of Konstanz’s Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour (CASCB) and HTWG Konstanz. The group also collaborates with TIDIT’s Probabilistic AI group and offers opportunities to engage with academic and industry partners in mobility, environmental monitoring, and collective behavior research. Mentoring is provided by senior researchers, with guidance for publishing in top venues such as VLDB, SIGMOD, and SIGSPATIAL.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in computer science or a closely related field, a strong foundation in database systems, proficiency in systems programming (Rust, C++, Java), and excellent communication and teamwork skills. Fluency in English is required. The position offers a competitive Swiss PhD salary and funding for conference travel. Enjoy the vibrant student life in Konstanz and outdoor activities at Lake Constance.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. Submit your CV and documents as a single PDF to [email protected] with the subject line 'PhD Position: Database Systems'. For more information, visit the Data Systems group page or apply via Academic Positions.