Doctoral Researcher in Environmental Data Visualization

About us

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Luxembourg Centre for Socio-Environmental Systems strives to grow into an internationally recognised research hub for a sustainable and equitable world. Our goal is to help societies to transition to environmentally friendly and just conditions. At the core is the recognition that global environmental disruptions such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion are closely linked with societal systems. To address these complex issues, we take a systemic approach and study the interconnectedness of human activities and the environment. Our mission is to develop sustainable, socially just, and environmentally friendly solutions by bridging disciplines and fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and society.

Your role

• Develop innovative methods for visualising complex environmental and socio-spatial data
• Analyse interdependencies, trade-offs, and synergies between SDG-related indicators
• Contribute to the design and development of the Living Atlas platform such as data integration, dashboards, visual interfaces
• Explore new forms of communicating uncertainty, risk, and complexity in sustainability research
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team and engage with stakeholders from policy and practice

The Living Atlas Luxembourg (LAL) is a research initiative that develops a dynamic, SDG-referenced platform to map and analyse interactions between land, climate, water, energy, and society. The project focuses on identifying tensions, synergies, and trade-offs between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to support evidence-based sustainability transitions and institutional decision-making.

You will have the opportunity to shape your own PhD topic within the framework of the project, for example:

• Visualising SDG trade-offs and synergies across spatial scales
• Interactive mapping of land-use, climate, and socio-economic dynamics
• Data storytelling and decision-support tools for sustainability transitions
• Integration and use of appropriate data analytic tools for visualisation of environmental data

Your profile

• A master's degree in data science, geography, environmental sciences, urban planning, computer science, design, or a related field
• Strong interest in sustainability, environmental systems, and spatial data
• Skills in the following areas:
• Data analysis and programming, e.g. Python, R
• GIS and spatial analysis
• Data visualisation

Language Requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. For details and accepted certificates, please visit the Application for admission - Doctoral Candidates.

We offer

• A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere. Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries. Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
• An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment. Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter presenting your motivation for this doctoral thesis topic, and explaining how your qualifications and aspirations align with its academic focus
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
• Portfolio or list of relevant projects
• One-page proposal outlining a potential PhD topic related to the project

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Belval Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL08123

The yearly gross salary for every Doctoral researcher at the UL is EUR 41976 (full time).