International PhD Position in Urban Analytics, Switzerland

With the motive of supporting overseas students in Switzerland, the University of Zurich is offering the International PhD Position in Urban Analytics for the year 2025/2026.

The studentship is open to designed to overseas applicants, who must hold a completed MSc degree with a thesis in a relevant field such as transport, urban analytics, spatial data science, geography, GIScience, or energy systems. They should have experience in empirical data analysis, preferably involving geospatial data, and be familiar with statistical, simulation, or machine learning methods.

The University of Zurich is Switzerland’s largest and one of its most prestigious universities, with over 28,000 students and 9,000 staff. Founded in 1833, UZH is a leading institution for research and education, known for its strong emphasis on academic freedom and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), it ranks among Europe’s top research institutions.
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eMPIRICA Information

eMPIRICA Grants

International PhD Position in Urban Analytics, Switzerland eMPIRICA is a for-profit private higher education institution located in the large town of Brcko (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Brcko District. Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Odjeljenje za obrazovanje, Brcko distrikta (Department of Education, Brcko District), eMPIRICA is a coeducational higher education institution. eMPIRICA offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Eligible Countries: Applicants from all countries are eligible to apply.

  • Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in Urban Analytics, Transport, Spatial Data Science, Geography, GIScience, Energy Systems, or related fields offered by the University of Zurich.

  • Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following criteria:

    • Hold a completed MSc degree (with thesis) in a relevant discipline such as transport, urban analytics, spatial data science, geography, or related fields.

    • Demonstrate experience in empirical data analysis, preferably including geospatial data.

    • Be familiar with statistical models, simulation approaches, and/or machine learning methods with a willingness to expand knowledge in these areas.

    • Have programming skills in tools such as Python or R.

    • Possess strong communication and organizational skills.

    • Be fluent in spoken and written English. Knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.

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Offered Benefits

  • Structured PhD training as part of the Graduate School of Geography and Earth System Science.

  • 70% protected research time.

  • Salary and benefits as per University of Zurich’s standard doctoral student employment at 80%.

  • 25 days of paid vacation annually plus public holidays.

  • Regular academic supervision, mentoring, and professional development support.

  • Opportunities to present at international conferences and publish in high-impact journals.

  • A collaborative and interdisciplinary working environment in one of Europe’s leading universities.

  • Located in Zurich, offering high living standards, vibrant culture, and easy access to nature.

Application Process

Applicants must submit the following documents in English through the University of Zurich’s job portal:

  • A motivation letter explaining their interest in the position and how they meet the required criteria.

  • A curriculum vitae (CV) including contact details of 2–3 referees.

  • Degree transcripts.

  • A 500-word summary of the Master’s thesis including the motivation, methodology, key findings, and implications.

  • A separate upload of the full Master’s thesis.

For inquiries: Contact Prof. Esra Suel at

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