Machine learning methods for seasonal river flow forecasting

About the Project

The Centre for Sustainability Research (CSR) and the Spatial Information Research Centre (SIRC), University of Otago (Dunedin, New Zealand) are offering a PhD position, with scholarship, for 3 years. The preferred starting date is June to September 2026.

In highly renewable electricity systems which rely on hydro-electricity for firming, as in New Zealand, one of the biggest risks to electricity security is dry winters in the hydro lakes. ... This funded PhD student will develop Machine Learning (ML) methods to find statistical non-linear relationships between large scale gridded ocean-atmosphere state variables (climate indices, SSTs/SLPs/geopotential height observations and forecasts) and local scale rainfall and river flows. Strong data skills will be required.

The successful candidate will hold a Masters degree in ML, statistics, computer science, meteorology, climate science, physics, or related fields. They will have experience with ML and data science, and preferably some knowledge of weather and climate processes. Extensive programming skills will be required, preferably in languages such as Python and R.

Value and tenure

• If successful, the scholarship includes a NZ$34,000 stipend per annum plus a domestic tuition fees waiver for 36 months (excludes student services fee and insurance).
• This project will start as soon as a successful candidate has been identified, but will likely span ~August 2026 – September 2029 (inclusive).

The researcher will work with Dr Jen Purdie and Prof Peter Whigham (University of Otago) and will be based at the Centre for Sustainability Research at the University of Otago, Dunedin.

This research is also in partnership with an Energy Industry partner, so collaboration with Energy Industry representatives, and travel to industry meetings, will be required from time to time.

Applicant eligibility

• This PhD scholarship is open to domestic and international candidates. Student visa application processes should be considered when applying.
• It is a prerequisite that applicants hold a Master’s qualification or equivalent in a relevant discipline with an independent research thesis component that totals ~30% of their overall Master’s grade.
• Please note you will need to have an excellent GPA and relevant research experience, and strong English writing and communication skills.

The application deadline is 19th June 2026.