Irène Gijbels

This PhD position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant research group specializing in mathematical statistics. The successful candidate will work within the ORSTAT research group at the Faculty of Economics and Business, as well as the Statistics and Risk section of the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science. The project focuses on developing innovative statistical methodologies for data that reside in non-Euclidean spaces, such as circles, hyperspheres, and tori. These types of data are prevalent in various applications, including wind direction analysis and animal movement studies, and often involve a mix of Euclidean and non-Euclidean data, sometimes in high-dimensional settings. The research aims to create flexible, semiparametric or nonparametric statistical methods for directional data, avoiding overly restrictive assumptions. The project is ideal for candidates interested in the mathematical foundations of statistics and the development of new methodologies with strong theoretical support. Practical implementation is a key component, so experience with computational tools and programming languages such as R or Python is highly valued. Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Economics, Business Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Computer Science, with at least the grade of distinction. Students in their final year of a Master's program are also encouraged to apply. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. The position is fully funded for four years, with annual contract renewals contingent on positive evaluations. The research environment is international and dynamic, with supervision from Professors Irène Gijbels and Gerda Claeskens, both recognized for their expertise and international networks. To apply, candidates should submit a motivation letter, CV, transcripts of grades, and contact information for 2–3 references. The application deadline is February 16, 2026. For further information, applicants may contact Prof. dr. Irène Gijbels ([email protected]) or Prof. dr. Gerda Claeskens ([email protected]). KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a respectful and supportive academic environment for all. For more details and to apply, visit the official application page.

This PhD position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant research group specializing in mathematical statistics. The successful candidate will work within the ORSTAT group at the Faculty of Economics and Business and the Statistics and Risk section of the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science. The research environment is dynamic, international, and highly collaborative, providing access to a large network of experts and resources. The project focuses on developing innovative statistical methodologies for data that reside in non-Euclidean spaces, such as circles, hyperspheres, and tori. These types of data are prevalent in various applications, including wind direction analysis and animal movement studies. The research aims to create flexible modelling and inference techniques, particularly semiparametric and nonparametric methods, for directional data. A key challenge is to accommodate both Euclidean and non-Euclidean data, often in high-dimensional settings, while avoiding overly restrictive assumptions. Candidates should have a strong interest in the mathematical foundations of statistics and be motivated to develop new methodologies with solid theoretical support. Practical implementation of these methods is integral to the project, so skills in computational statistics and programming (especially in R or Python) are highly valued. The position is open to applicants with a Master's degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Economics, Business Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Computer Science, provided they have achieved at least the grade of distinction. Final-year Master's students are also encouraged to apply. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. KU Leuven offers a high-level international research environment and a supportive team of supervisors, Professors Irène Gijbels and Gerda Claeskens, both recognized for their international reputation and expertise. Funding for the position is secured for four years, with annual contracts renewable up to a maximum of four years, contingent on positive evaluations. To apply, candidates should submit a letter of motivation detailing their research interests and skills, a curriculum vitae, transcripts of grades for all university courses (including up-to-date grades for current Master's students), and the names and contact information of 2–3 references. Applications should be submitted via the provided online link. For further information, applicants may contact Prof. dr. Irène Gijbels or Prof. dr. Gerda Claeskens by email. KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and equal opportunity for all. The university does not tolerate discrimination of any kind and provides support for accessibility and other needs.

This postdoctoral research position in mathematical statistics at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and internationally recognized research group. The successful candidate will contribute to research projects focused on statistical inference for contemporary data structures, including directional data and data in non-Euclidean spaces such as simplexes, circles, hyperspheres, and tori. The research emphasizes the development of flexible modeling and inference methods that avoid overly restrictive assumptions, often employing semiparametric or nonparametric techniques. The postdoctoral researcher will be part of a collaborative environment, working with members of the ORSTAT research group at the Faculty of Economics and Business and the Statistics and Risk section of the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science. The team is led by Professors Irène Gijbels and Gerda Claeskens, both internationally renowned for their contributions to statistics. The position offers a one-year contract, with opportunities to participate in national and international scientific events for dissemination of research results. Applicants should hold a doctoral degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Economics, Business Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Computer Science, and have experience with nonparametric and/or semiparametric statistical techniques. Candidates nearing completion of their PhD are also eligible to apply. A strong interest in the mathematical foundations of statistics and theoretical methodology is essential, as is the ability to implement methods in open source software such as R or Python. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. KU Leuven provides a supportive and inclusive environment, valuing diversity and equal opportunity. The starting date is as soon as possible, but negotiable for candidates completing their PhD. For more information, applicants may contact Prof. dr. Irène Gijbels or Prof. dr. Gerda Claeskens via email. Applications should include a motivation letter, CV, and contact information for 2–3 references, and be submitted through the KU Leuven job portal.