Opportunities
Join my team
Welcome! I have joined the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University as a tenure-track Assistant Professor in August 2026. I am building a research group focused on advancing geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI) to address problems arising from human-environment interactions. I am looking for motivated graduate and undergraduate students interested in GeoAI, spatial data science, and GIScience to join my research group. Please read below before reaching out.
MSc Students — Two fully-funded positions available starting January 2027.
I am recruiting two fully-funded MSc students (including stipends and tuition coverage) to pursue one or more of the following research directions in my research group:
- Spatially-explicit GeoAI: developing, evaluating, and deploying AI models that explicitly account for spatial data properties
- Explainable GeoAI: developing, evaluating, and comparing interpretable and explainable geospatial AI models
- GeoAI for geosimulation and spatiotemporal modelling
- Strong background in GIScience, computer science, geomatics, remote sensing, or a related field
- Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) software or programming workflows
- Familiarity with programming (Python, R, or similar)
- Genuine interest in spatial data science and GeoAI
- (Optional) Prior research experience
Domestic applicants should apply by November 15th 2026 for January 2027 admission, or by March 15th 2027 for May 2027 admission. International applicants should apply by November 15th 2026 for May 2027 admission. For more information on the MSc program and application process, please visit the MSc program page.
CV, statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and transcripts. An optional writing sample (thesis, manuscript, or abstract) is welcome.
Before you apply to the MSc program, please email me at avanduynhoven@wlu.ca with your CV, transcripts, contact details for two references, and a brief statement of research interests, using the subject line "Prospective MSc — [your name]." Informal inquiries are welcome.
Undergraduate Students — Research opportunities available starting May 2027.
Undergraduate students with strong interest in GeoAI, spatial data science, and GIScience are invited to contact me for opportunities to join my research group. Research opportunities may include independent projects, research assistantships, or co-authorship on publications. Students will gain hands-on research experience in geospatial data analysis, machine learning, and scientific writing. This opportunity includes industry-relevant technical skills mentorship and development (Python, R, or similar, depending on the student's interests). No prior research experience is required. Students are asked to bring their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
Please email avanduynhoven@wlu.ca a brief statement about your interests and your CV. Please indicate any relevant coursework or experience. Informal inquiries are welcome.
PhD Students and Postdoctoral Researchers
I am also open to inquiries from prospective PhD students and postdoctoral researchers interested in joining my research group. Please email avanduynhoven@wlu.ca a brief statement about your interests and your CV. I look forward to discussing and developing a program that fits you and our research group.