PhD Positions in Mining Engineering, Operations Research, and Optimization at University of Alberta University of Alberta in Canada

The Mining Optimization Lab (MOL) at the University of Alberta is seeking four highly motivated and excellent candidates for fully funded PhD positions starting in September 2026. The research group, led by Professor Hooman Askari, focuses on applying operations research and advanced analytical methods—including mathematical modeling, optimization, discrete event and continuous simulation, and intelligent agents—to solve complex, large-scale mine planning and operations decision-making problems. The lab's interdisciplinary approach integrates Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computing Science, and Operations Research.

Applicants should have a strong academic background and a high GPA in one of the following fields: Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computing Science, or Operations Research. The ideal candidates are expected to be excellent, highly motivated, and interested in research areas such as mine planning, optimization, simulation modeling, and intelligent systems for mining applications.

Funding is available for successful candidates, though specific details regarding stipend amount or tuition coverage are not provided in the announcement. The positions are open to both domestic and international students. The application deadline is December 15, 2025, for a September 2026 start date.

For more information about the research group and the application process, please visit the Mining Optimization Lab's academic page at the University of Alberta. Interested applicants should review the detailed instructions in the linked PDF and prepare their application materials accordingly. For further inquiries, contact Professor Hooman Askari at [email protected].

Keywords: Mining Engineering, Operations Research, Optimization, Mathematical Modeling, Simulation, Intelligent Agents, Mine Planning, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computing Science.