The University of Twente in the Netherlands is now accepting applications for the 2025 PhD Scholarship in Geo-Artificial Intelligence for Mapping Vegetation Dynamics. This prestigious opportunity is part of the EARTHONE Horizon Europe project, which aims to enhance greenhouse gas removal by assessing sustainable land-use transformations. If you have a passion for geo-artificial intelligence, climate change, and vegetation dynamics, this fully-funded PhD program is an excellent opportunity to advance your research career.

About the Scholarship

As a PhD candidate, you will be an integral part of the EARTHONE (Environmental Analysis and Resilience for Transformative Human-Optimized Natural Environments) project. Your research will focus on vegetation phenology at regional and local levels, combining climate simulations, weather data, remote sensing information, and field observations from active laboratories in Southern Europe. The study will explore how extreme weather events and land-use changes influence vegetation seasonality and productivity, leveraging geo-artificial intelligence and spatiotemporal machine learning techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct extensive phenological research across Europe.
• Analyse the impact of extreme weather events and land-use changes on vegetation.
• Develop and implement cutting-edge geo-AI and machine learning models.
• Collaborate with climate modelers, forestry specialists, and agricultural scientists.
• Contribute to an interdisciplinary and globally connected research environment.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this PhD scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Hold an MSc degree in geospatial sciences, computing, environmental sciences, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate strong programming skills (preferably in Python).
• Have experience with geospatial modeling, spatial analytics, and machine learning.
• Show the ability to address real-world interdisciplinary research challenges.
• Exhibit excellent English communication skills (Dutch proficiency is an advantage).
• Prior knowledge in climate change, ecology, or phenology is desirable.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• Motivation Letter: A one-page statement outlining research interests and potential contributions to the project.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic background, courses taken, grades, references, and any publications.
• Research Proposal: A two-page document presenting ideas on phenological modelling for the EARTHONE initiative.
• Project Summary: A 250-word description of the applicant’s MSc thesis or final research project.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

• A four-year, full-time PhD position, with a performance review after 6–9 months.
• Competitive monthly salary starting at €2,901, increasing to €3,707 in the fourth year.
• Additional benefits, including 8% vacation pay and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
• 41 vacation days per year (for full-time roles).
• Enrolment in Twente Graduate School for professional development.
• Retirement plan and a stimulating research environment.
• Access to an international research setting with a vibrant, green campus.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply through the official University of Twente career portal. Ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted before the deadline.

For full details and to apply, visit: University of Twente Careers Portal

Conclusion

The University of Twente PhD Scholarship 2025 offers a unique chance to contribute to ground breaking research in geo-artificial intelligence and climate science. With a focus on sustainable land-use transformation and vegetation dynamics, this program will help shape the future of environmental science and ecological resilience. Apply today and take the next step toward an impactful research career!