PhD Machine learning meets choice models (1.0 FTE)

Since its foundation in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative center of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Belonging to the best research universities of Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen is truly an international place of knowledge.

Faculty of Economics and Business
The Faculty of Economics and Business offers an inspiring study and working environment for students and employees. International accreditation enables the Faculty to assess performance against the highest international standards. It also creates an exciting environment of continuous improvement. FEB's programmes, academic staff and research do well on various excellence ranking lists.

FEBRI, the graduate school and research institute of the Faculty of Economics and Business has one PhD position in the field of Machine learning meets choice models available.

Project description
Nonparametric statistical learning provides a flexible and data-driven approach to choice modeling. Recent advancements have improved its economic interpretability and predictive accuracy. We want to explore the structural parameters in choice models (e.g., random coefficient logit models) and obtain valid inferential results using machine learning-enhanced models. This project has the potential to expand into broader econometric applications and utilize machine learning methods to address empirically relevant questions in disciplines such as empirical industrial organization, health economics, or labor economics.

The PhD position is embedded in the research programme EEF of FEB’s Research Institute. The project will be supervised by Dr M.K. (Maximilian) Osterhaus, Dr L. (Lingwei) Kong, Prof. W.(Weining) Wang.

The ideal candidate is ambitious, highly motivated and wishes to make a career in research. You have a thorough training in research skills, speaks and writes English fluently and has obtained excellent results in the Master phase.
The PhD candidate should have a background (MSc, Research Master) in Econometrics, Statistics or Mathematics or closely related fields, and proficiency in programming for simulation studies.

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a gross monthly salary from a minimum of € 2,770 which increases yearly to a maximum of € 3,539
• an additional 8% holiday allowance each year in May, and an additional 8.3 % end of year bonus in December
• a temporary full-time appointment for a period of four years, under the condition of a positive assessment at the end of the first year. PhD candidates contribute 20% of their time to teaching in years 2-4.

Starting date: Preferably per 1 September 2024

The application package consists of the following separate documents:

• a motivation letter (1A4 max)
• your cv
• a reference letter including the contact details of the referee
• a scan of your diploma including transcripts
• proof of English proficiency
• other relevant documents.

The documents 1-5 are compulsory and please note that incomplete application packages will not be taken into account. If necessary – because of the limited upload options - please combine different documents into one pdf.

You may apply for this position until 12 May 11:59pm / before 13 May 2024 Dutch local time (CEST) by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

An assessment may be part of the procedure, consisting of psychological tests and an interview.