About the Position

The University of Florida (UF) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Geomatics/GIS, focusing on AI-Driven Geospatial Data Analysis. This position is part of a growing initiative to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) with geospatial technologies (GeoAI), advancing the understanding of geographic patterns, mobility, and trends. The selected candidate will explore innovative approaches to analyzing and enhancing large-scale geospatial datasets, with a particular emphasis on human behavior and mobility patterns.

This research will involve leveraging AI techniques, including multimodal AI systems, to analyze crowdsourced spatial data such as biodiversity photo collections, sports app location data, online reviews, social media posts, web searches, and street view images. By applying GeoAI methods, the candidate will address the challenges of unstructured and complex spatial data, improving data accuracy, completeness, and reliability.

The research will be conducted at UF’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC), located in the southeastern coastal region of Florida, near Miami. The program is designed to be completed within four years.

Your Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Conduct innovative research in AI-driven geospatial data analysis, focusing on multimodal AI systems, mobility patterns, and data quality enhancement.
• Design and implement methods for analyzing crowdsourced and large-scale geospatial datasets.
• Apply data mining and conflation techniques to improve the usability and reliability of geospatial data.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present your research at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to the GeoAI research community.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Geographic Information Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java.
• Hands-on experience with spatial databases (e.g., PostgreSQL/PostGIS) and GIS software.
• Foundational knowledge of Linux operating systems.
• Familiarity with AI methods and/or techniques for analyzing crowdsourced data.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

What We Offer

• Competitive Annual Stipend: A highly competitive stipend to support your research.
• Tuition Waiver: Full coverage of tuition costs.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health benefits.
• World-Class Research Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art facilities at UF’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center.
• Collaborative Environment: Opportunities to work with leading experts in GeoAI and geospatial data analysis.
• Prime Location: Located in the southeastern coastal region of Florida, near Miami, offering a vibrant and inspiring environment.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic background, research experience, and relevant skills.
2. Statement of Interest: A brief statement (max 1 page) outlining why you are an exceptional fit for this position.

Applications should be sent via email to Dr. Hartwig Hochmair. The review of applications will begin in January 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.