项目介绍

2026年7月6日

The ORSTAT research group of the Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven (Belgium) has a vacancy for a PhD student position in Statistics and Data Science. We are looking for a full-time PhD student to do research on robust statistical methods under the supervision of prof. Christophe Croux of ORSTAT, and prof. Stefan van Aelst and Mia Hubert from the department of Mathematics, division of Statistics and Data Science. Research focusses on developing robust statistical methodology, to study properties of the methods both numerically and mathematically, and to provide algorithms and applications.

Project

The PhD candidate will work on the project “Robust statistical methods for improved prediction and anomaly detection”.  Almost all real data deviate from the ideal assumptions underlying statistical models. An intrinsic problem is the occurrence of outliers or anomalies in real data. Robust statistical methods have proven to be a very powerful approach to reliably analyze such real data and provide accurate outlier detection. The objective of the PhD thesis is to develop innovative robust statistical methods for modern complex data, such as high dimensional time series and tensors. Focus is on prediction and forecasting. 

Profile

• You recently obtained your master’s degree (or you are about to graduate in 2026) in Statistics and Data Science, Mathematics,  Business Engineering, (Business) Economics, or a similar degree with an equivalent academic level.• You have a strong interest in statistics / data science, both for theory, coding, and applications.• Excellent results in prior studies are a requirement (cum laude – distinction, or higher).• Experience with programming languages (such as R and/or Python) is an asset.• You can conduct independent research (demonstrated, e.g., by an excellent Master’s thesis) as well as collaborate well in teams.• You have excellent command of spoken and written English and are equipped with good communication skills.• You are willing to participate in (international) seminars and conferences.• You are willing to enroll in the PhD program of the Faculty of Economics and Business at KU Leuven• You will also give guidance to students, be involved in teaching activities and in the supervision of exams (with a maximum of 4 hours a week) 

Offer

• A fulltime PhD position for 1 year, starting 2026, October 1, renewable up to a maximum of four years upon yearly successful evaluations. The work should lead to a PhD degree.• An interesting and diverse job within a dynamic and pleasant working environment, in a group conducting research at the highest international standards.• A social, tolerant, and constructive workplace that offers ample opportunities for personal development.• A correct and beneficial salary.• Numerous opportunities for personal growth, illustrated by e.g., conference participation, “doctoral schools” courses on transferable skills, participation in educational initiatives, and publication opportunities.
Applications should be submitted through KU Leuven’s online platform together with:1) a motivation letter with a statement of skills and research interests;2) a curriculum vitae;3) university diploma copies and complete transcripts

More info on making a PhD at KU Leuven

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Christophe Croux, mail: christophe.croux@kuleuven.be.You can apply for this job no later than July 20, 2026 via the online application tool