PhD Scholarship: GeoAI & LLMs: Aalto University’s School of Engineering is inviting applications for Doctoral Researcher in GeoAI & Large Language Models. This position focuses on the development of geographic Large Language Models (LLMs) involving spatio-temporal reasoning, multimodal data integration, and context-aware navigation systems. It offers an excellent opportunity to work in an international and interdisciplinary environment under the supervision of top researchers.
PhD Scholarship: Doctoral Researcher in GeoAI & Large Language Models
Designation
Doctoral Researcher
Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Aalto University, School of Engineering |
| Position | Doctoral Researcher in GeoAI & Large Language Models |
| Location | Aalto University, Helsinki, Finland |
| Duration | 4 years (initial 2-year contract with possible extension based on evaluation) |
| Salary | Starting at 2888 € per month, progressing to over 3500 € per month as work progresses |
| Start Date | Preferred: 1 April 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 2 March 2025 |
| Research Visits | Collaboration opportunities with top European universities, including Ghent University (Belgium), University of Leeds (UK), University of Toulouse 3 (France), and more |
Research Area
The research falls under the scope of the “Geo-R2LLM” project and primarily focuses on:
- Developing geographic LLMs with spatio-temporal reasoning capabilities.
- Designing multimodal LLMs for context-aware navigation systems.
- Integrating LLM-based models into navigation services by incorporating multimodal data (text, geospatial data, videos, images) for real-world applications.
Location
Helsinki, Finland (Department of Built Environment, Aalto University)
Eligibility/Qualifications
Candidates are expected to fulfill several of the following requirements:
- A completed Master’s degree (or expected completion before April 2025) in GIScience, GeoAI, Computer Science, Language Technologies, Data Science, or related fields.
- Proven experience with:
- Large Language Models (LLM) or machine learning techniques.
- Knowledge-driven and data-driven AI methods.
- GIScience, geospatial data, and related tools.
- Data processing and quality control.
- Interest or experience in mobility research (optional but beneficial).
- Strong programming and analytical skills, with the ability to work in a team-oriented and collaborative environment.
- Excellent command of English (both spoken and written).
Description
The successful applicant will:
- Participate in designing context-aware navigation systems using multimodal LLMs.
- Perform research on spatio-temporal reasoning and integration of LLMs into navigation-related applications.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
- Contribute to the development of open-source GIS tools while adhering to FAIR data principles.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team and international partners across academia and industry.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Motivation letter outlining interest, contact details, and preferred start date (max one A4 page).
- CV including contact information of two references (max two A4 pages).
- Text example (e.g., Master’s Thesis, research paper, or relevant projects).
- Degree certificate and transcripts with grading scale explanations.
- Programming/research repository link (e.g., GitHub or GitLab) showcasing analytical and coding skills.
All materials must be compiled into a single PDF and submitted via the eRecruitment system by 2 March 2025. Email applications will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
2 March 2025
Additional Information
- For more details about the position, visit Aalto University Website.
- Contact Assistant Professor Henrikki Tenkanen for further inquiries.
- Recruitment-related questions: HR Advisor Heidi Lehtinen (+358 50 340 9683).
Leverage this opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in GeoAI and LLM-based technologies while collaborating with world-class researchers in a globally renowned institution!
