Fwd: PhD position in applying mathematics to geosciences
Jessica Sadler
PhD position in Slovenia on studying karst underground through machine learning
There is an open PhD position in studying karst underground systems through machine learning at the Department of Systems and Control, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia. The position is under the mentorship of Matija Perne.
My research focuses on mathematical modeling, optimization, and machine learning, applied across various fields (see publications), with a particular emphasis on karst phenomena. I currently lead a project studying cave air through statistical modelling. The PhD topic is expected to be partially related to these areas. Potential research directions include:
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Modeling the evolution of karst aquifers and cave formation
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Modeling the flow of air, water, or heat in karst systems
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Exploring other topics sufficiently aligned with my expertise
From you, I expect:
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Curiosity, motivation to work on the topic
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Some relevant prior knowledge
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A healthy balance of persistence and adaptability
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Fulfillment of formal eligibility criteria
Details on employment terms, eligibility requirements, and other relevant information are available on the Call for tenders website and in the official Call document.
The deadline for application is June 22, 2025, though it may be extended. Feel free to contact me at Matija...@ijs.si for further inquiries.
Slovenia is a small country with diverse landscapes, connecting the Alps, the Mediterranean, and the Pannonian Plain. A significant portion of Slovenia consists of karst landscapes, including the plateau that gave “karst” its name, as well as numerous caves. The country offers good conditions for outdoor recreation and research.
Slovenia is generally a safe country respecting human rights and personal freedoms. While public transportation could be better, it allows access to many destinations, so you won’t be confined to a single neighborhood even without a car. Additionally, Slovenia is small enough that a fit cyclist can cross it in a day. As there are relatively few speakers of the Slovene language outside the country, foreign language proficiency, particularly English, is widespread among the population. The main challenges you may face will likely be dealing with bureaucracy and securing accommodation.
Ljubljana is the capital and by far the largest city in Slovenia. It is home to the country’s largest and oldest university and offers the most vibrant cultural scene.
The Jožef Stefan Institute, based in Ljubljana, is the largest public research institute in Slovenia, covering a broad spectrum of basic and applied research. Our Department of Systems and Control initially focused on advancing industrial automation. As the field evolved from a research challenge to a standard practice, the department diversified into other areas requiring similar methodologies. These include plasma control in fusion reactors, wastewater treatment plant modeling, applications in the steel industry and hydrogen economy, machine learning, and weather forecasting.
Young Researcher funding covers four years of salary, full tuition fees, and research expenses such as travel. You will receive a fixed-term employment contract, where your main responsibility is your PhD research while being enrolled in a Slovene PhD program. You may collaborate with coworkers on their projects to gain a wider experience, but you will not be required to—your research project will take priority.
Your salary will increase over time due to promotions and ongoing public sector salary reforms. If I calculated it correctly, it will rise from €2,077.01 to between €2,332.62 and €3,134.85 before taxes. A significant portion will go toward taxes, but your income will remain well above the poverty threshold, ensuring a comfortable quality of life without debt accumulation.
You will also receive employment benefits in accordance with local regulations, including health and retirement insurance, paid annual leave, sick leave, and parental leave (which may extend the duration of your project). Additionally, you will receive workplace benefits such as meal subsidy (~€7 per day) and reimbursement for commuting expenses.
If you have any questions, whether about your research or life in Slovenia, feel free to ask me.
Matija Perne
Jožef Stefan Institute, Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
University of Ljubljana