Hooman Askari

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.

The University of Alberta's Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL) is offering four fully funded PhD positions starting September 2026 in Edmonton, Canada. The positions are open to excellent and highly motivated candidates with backgrounds in Mining Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computing Science, or Operations Research. The research will focus on simulation and optimization of mining systems, as well as mine planning optimization and design, using advanced operations research and analytical methods. Applicants should have strong academic records, proficiency in English, and skills in computer programming and databases. Experience in mathematical programming and discrete-event simulation is advantageous. The application package must include official transcripts, degree certificates, English translations if applicable, three academic references, and official English language proficiency scores. Funding covers tuition and provides a stipend. Early application is recommended, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. For more information, visit the official link or contact the supervisors.

The Mining Optimization Laboratory (MOL) at the University of Alberta is offering four fully-funded PhD positions starting in September 2026. The research will focus on simulation-optimization of mining systems and mine planning design, utilizing advanced analytical and computational methods. The positions are supervised by Dr. Hooman Askari and Dr. Yashar Pourrahimian, both experts in mining optimization. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Mining, Industrial Engineering, Computing Science, or Operations Research. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. The funding package covers full tuition and provides a stipend. Interested candidates should apply early by contacting the supervisors via the provided email and ensuring their application is complete, as incomplete applications will not be considered.