Umeå University in Sweden is inviting applications for one to two fully funded PhD positions in Statistics under the research project “Next-Generation Latent Variable Models for Social Data Science.” The doctoral opportunities are based at the Department of Statistics within the Umeå School of Business, Economics and Statistics (USBE). The positions offer an opportunity for researchers with strong quantitative backgrounds to pursue doctoral studies in statistics while contributing to research involving latent variable models, statistical methodology, computational methods and modern machine learning. The PhD positions are fully funded for four years, with the possibility of teaching and/or consulting duties of up to 20% of working time. Where such duties are undertaken, the duration of the programme may be extended to ensure four years of graduate study. The application deadline is 4 November 2026. Umeå University PhD Positions in Statistics The Department of Statistics is recruiting one to two PhD students for the research project “Next-Generation Latent Variable Models for Social Data Science,” led by PhD Gabriel Wallin. The project focuses on statistical problems involving characteristics that cannot be directly observed from data. Examples include ability, attitudes, well-being and different dimensions of poverty. Researchers working on the project will develop statistical theory, methodology and computational approaches for complex data problems, with particular attention to latent variables and their connections to modern machine learning. The research combines methodological statistics with applications involving large-scale social science data. Fully Funded PhD Opportunity in Sweden The successful candidates will receive funding for the duration of the four-year doctoral programme. PhD students may also undertake teaching and/or consulting duties for up to 20% of their time. According to the university, this can extend the appointment to guarantee four years of graduate studies. The anticipated starting date is 1 January 2027, or another date by agreement. Candidates who require a residence permit to study in Sweden should also take this into consideration when planning their application and potential start date. Research Focus The doctoral project addresses statistical modelling challenges arising in social science research. The research will focus particularly on: Latent variable models Statistical theory and methodology Computational methods Statistical machine learning Large-scale social science data Modern machine learning Statistical modelling of complex data Applications to societally relevant questions The successful candidates will also have opportunities to collaborate with external partners, including organisations working in digital learning and the charity sector. Eligibility Requirements Applicants are expected to hold a degree at the advanced level with a major in Statistics, or equivalent qualifications. Applicants must also have satisfactorily completed at least 30 ECTS credits in Mathematics or an equivalent amount of mathematical coursework. In addition to the formal academic requirements, AFIDEP is looking for candidates with a strong quantitative background. Relevant backgrounds may include: Statistics Mathematics Computer science Related quantitative disciplines Applicants should also demonstrate very good programming skills, an interest in statistical modelling and strong motivation to develop statistical methodology for societally relevant questions. Knowledge of statistical machine learning, particularly both theoretical and applied understanding and its implementation, is considered a particularly strong merit. What the Selection Committee Will Consider Applicants will be assessed based on their qualifications and their ability to benefit from doctoral-level education at Umeå University. The university will consider the applicant’s academic background, quantitative preparation, programming capabilities, research interests and motivation in relation to the doctoral project. Candidates should therefore ensure that their application clearly explains their interest in statistics and how their previous academic or research experience relates to the proposed research area. Documents Required Applicants should prepare the required supporting documents before submitting their application. The application should include: A letter of application explaining the applicant’s motivation, research interests and their relevance to the position. A Curriculum Vitae (CV). The “New PhD” form provided by Umeå University. Copies of undergraduate and graduate theses. Copies of relevant degree certificates and other supporting documentation. Names and contact details, including email addresses, for at least two referees. Applicants should ensure that documents are complete and submitted according to the university’s recruitment requirements. Application Deadline Application Deadline: 4 November 2026 The application must be submitted through Umeå University’s recruitment system no later than 4 November 2026. The expected starting date is 1 January 2027, or another date agreed with the university. The latest date for starting the doctoral studies is 1 September 2027. Residence Permit Information International applicants who require a residence permit to stay in Sweden should take the immigration requirements into account. Umeå University states that, where a residence permit is required, the university reserves the right to revoke admission if the applicant is not granted the necessary permit or cannot present a valid residence permit before the study start date. Applicants should therefore review the relevant Swedish residence and immigration requirements alongside the doctoral application process. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their applications through the Umeå University recruitment system before the deadline. The official vacancy is associated with Registration Number AN 2026/1048. Candidates should review the complete vacancy announcement and doctoral-study information before submitting their application. For further information about the position, applicants can contact PhD Gabriel Wallin or Professor Marie Eriksson, Director of Doctoral Studies, using the contact details provided in the official vacancy announcement. About Umeå University Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions, with more than 41,500 students and approximately 4,600 employees, according to the university. The Umeå School of Business, Economics and Statistics includes the Department of Statistics, where research covers statistical sciences, including methodological development and empirical research conducted in collaboration with other disciplines. USBE is also AACSB-accredited and sustainability certified according to the ISO 14001 environmental management standard. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Important: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the offering organisation. This opportunity information is shared for informational purposes based on Umeå University’s official vacancy announcement. Applicants should verify the latest eligibility requirements, funding arrangements, application documents, deadline and residence-permit requirements directly with Umeå University before applying. Do not send applications or CVs to GSO. Applications must be submitted through the official Umeå University recruitment system. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW