"PhD: Semantic Modelling of Geodata Sources and Geo-analytical Workflows"

Job Summary

As a PhD candidate in the ERC-funded GeoTrAnsQData project at Utrecht University, you will develop innovative methods to make geographic data smarter and more question-aware, contributing to spatial reasoning and sustainability. The project focuses on creating a GeoQA method that converts questions into executable geo-analytical workflows using knowledge graphs and AI.

Responsibilities

• Develop a semantic framework and knowledge graph to represent geodata sources, their provenance, and geospatial workflows using purpose-driven concepts.
• Develop AI and machine learning technology to automate the description and modeling of data sources based on text descriptions and geodata.
• Contribute to a knowledge base linking geographic questions to datasets and spatial transformation steps.
• Collaborate with another PhD candidate, a postdoc, and a technical assistant.
• Evaluate the framework through user-centered scenarios in spatial planning or environmental assessment, and develop annotation manuals and tests.

Qualifications and Requirements

This position requires a Master’s degree (completed or near completion) in GIScience, GeoInformatics, Computer Science, Ontology Engineering, Computational Geosciences, or a related field. Candidates should have a strong interest in conceptual modeling, semantic modeling, ontology engineering, formal logics, or cognitive modeling, along with experience in knowledge graph standards (e.g., RDF, OWL, SHACL). Familiarity with GIS, geodata infrastructures, geo-analytical workflows, AI, machine learning methods for NLP, and programming skills (e.g., Python, RDF) are essential. Good English communication skills and an interest in interdisciplinary collaboration are required.

What the Employer Offers

A position for one year, extendable to four years upon successful assessment, with a working week of 38 hours. Gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881 (scale P under the CAO NU). Benefits include 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms. Additional schemes for professional development, leave, sports, and cultural activities are available.