PhD Opportunities in Public Transport: The Transportation Research at McGill (TRAM) research laboratory is offering two fully-funded PhD positions focused on public transport planning, operations, and policy. Candidates interested in conducting impactful research in the field are encouraged to express their interest.
Fully-Funded PhD Opportunities in Public Transport Planning at McGill University
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
- Public Transport Planning
- Public Transport Operations
- Public Transport Policy Evaluation
Location
McGill University, School of Urban Planning, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Planning, Statistics, Data Science, Geography, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field.
- Deep knowledge and interest in public transport planning, operations, or policy evaluation.
- Preferred skills include:
- Experience with statistical modeling and geospatial analysis.
- Public transport policy analysis and evaluation.
- Proficiency in R and/or GIS (or willingness to learn).
- Knowledge of Quebec’s public transit ecosystem (an asset).
- Peer-reviewed publications (an asset).
- Excellent English communication skills; French language skills are an asset.
Job Description
Selected PhD candidates will collaborate under the direction of Prof. Ahmed El-Geneidy within the TRAM research group, engaging in practice and policy-ready research on various topics, such as:
- Public transport performance metrics
- Satisfaction and travel experience
- Evaluation of infrastructure projects and impacts on travel behavior
Three years of funding is available based on merit, with potential eligibility for additional fellowships and awards.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the expression of interest form before 15 November 2025. Candidates should prepare the following:
- Information about their university degrees (Title, Institution, Graduation Year, GPA).
- Brief list of relevant work experience (Title, Employer/Institution).
- English language test results, if applicable (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Documents required for submission:
- Current CV with a maximum 1-page cover letter (combined in a single PDF).
- Unofficial academic transcripts (combined in a single PDF).
The cover letter should briefly discuss:
- Interest in joining the TRAM lab.
- Alignment of research experience/interests with the position.
- Relevant skills as they pertain to the position.
- Goals post-PhD.
Last Date to Apply
15 November 2025
For additional information, please visit the TRAM research group website or contact Mathew Page at mathew.page@mcgill.ca.
