PhD Candidate in Topological Data Analysis for Financial and Economic Systems

Welcome to Maastricht University!
How can we better understand the hidden structures that shape economic and financial systems? At Maastricht University, we believe that advanced mathematics holds part of the answer. As a PhD candidate, you’ll explore the frontiers of topological data analysis (TDA) and dynamic networks to uncover the evolving architecture of markets and economies. Together with researchers from diverse fields, you’ll contribute to knowledge that has both theoretical depth and real-world relevance.

Our goal: Reveal the underlying structure of economic and financial systems using advanced mathematical and computational tools.
Your colleagues: An interdisciplinary team of researchers in data science, mathematics, and finance within the Department of Data Analytics and Digitalisation (DAD).

You’ll conduct PhD research at the intersection of mathematics, data science, and economics – with a special focus on applying topological data analysis to dynamic networks in financial or economic contexts. Your work includes designing computational models, analyzing large-scale datasets, and developing new TDA-based techniques to detect structural patterns in complex systems.

You’ll collaborate closely with Dr. Ioannis Diamantis and colleagues from the School of Business and Economics (SBE), while also engaging with external partners and departments when relevant. Alongside your research, you’ll document your progress in academic publications and contribute to a vibrant academic community through seminars, conferences, and collaborative projects. Your research will ultimately form the basis of your doctoral dissertation.

Are you ready to bridge theory and practice in a unique interdisciplinary project? Then we’d love to hear from you.

What you bring
We’re looking for a motivated and curious mind with a strong analytical foundation. Does this sound like you?

• You hold a Master’s degree in data science, mathematics, computer science, quantitative economics, or a related field.
• You have a solid foundation in quantitative methods such as applied mathematics, machine learning, or statistical analysis.
• You’re excited about topological data analysis – prior knowledge of persistent homology or computational topology is a plus.
• You’re familiar with dynamic networks or complex systems, or eager to dive into these topics.
• You’re proficient in coding and data analysis, preferably in Python and/or MATLAB.
• You communicate clearly, both in writing and speaking, in English.
• You’re collaborative and independent – equally comfortable working with others as taking ownership of your own research.
• You have prior research experience, such as a master’s thesis or publication, that demonstrates your potential.

 What we offer
As PhD Candidate in Topological Data Analysis for Financial and Economic Systems at School of Business and Economics, you will be employed by the most international university in the Netherlands, located in the beautiful city of Maastricht. In addition, we offer you:

• Good employment conditions. The position is graded in scale P according to UFO profile PhD, with corresponding salary based on experience ranging from €3059,00 and €3881,00 gross per month (based on a full-time employment of 38 hours per week). In addition to the monthly salary, an 8.0% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus apply.
• An employment contract for a period of 18 months with a scope of 1.0 FTE. Upon a positive evaluation, an extension of  2.5 years will follow.
• At Maastricht University, the well-being of our employees is of utmost importance, we offer flexible working hours and the possibility to work partly from home if the nature of your position allows it. You will receive a monthly commuting and internet allowance for this. If you work full-time, you will be entitled to 29 vacation days and 4 additional public holidays per year, namely carnival Monday, carnival Tuesday, Good Friday, and Liberation Day. If you choose to accumulate compensation hours, an additional 12 days will be added. Furthermore, you can personalize your employment conditions through a collective labor agreement (CAO) choice model. 
• As Maastricht University, we offer various other excellent secondary employment conditions. These include a good pension scheme with the ABP and the opportunity for UM employees to participate in company fitness and make use of the extensive sports facilities that we also offer to our students. 
• Last but certainly not least, we provide the space and facilities for your personal and professional development. We facilitate this by offering a wide range of training programs and supporting various well-established initiatives such as 'acknowledge and appreciate'. 
   

The terms of employment at Maastricht University are largely set out in the collective labor agreement of Dutch Universities. In addition, local provisions specific to UM apply. For more information, click here.

Maastricht University
Why work at Maastricht University?
At Maastricht University (UM), everything revolves around the future. The future of our students, as we work to equip them with a solid, broad-based foundation for the rest of their lives. And the future of society, as we seek solutions through our research to issues from all around the world. Our six faculties combined provide a comprehensive package of study programmes and research.

In our teaching, we use the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method. Students work in small groups, looking for solutions to problems themselves. By discussing issues and working together to draw conclusions, formulate answers and present them to their peers, students develop essential skills for their future careers.

With over 22,300 students and more than 5,000 employees from all over the world, UM is home to a vibrant and inspiring international community.

Are you drawn to an international setting focused on education, science and scholarship? Are you keen to contribute however your skills and qualities allow? Our door is open to you! As a young European university, we value your talent and look forward to creating the future together.

Click here for more information about UM. 

The School of Business and Economics
The School of Business and Economics (SBE) is one of Maastricht University’s six faculties. Our mission is to contribute to a better world by addressing societal problems, by co-creating knowledge and developing team players and leaders for the future.

By joining SBE, you will be part of the 1% of business schools worldwide to be Triple Crown accredited (EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA). You will join an inspiring and international environment, where learning and development is priority. 

 
Department
You’ll join the Department of Data Analytics and Digitalisation (DAD) at the School of Business and Economics (SBE), one of the six faculties of Maastricht University. Our department combines academic rigor with practical relevance, applying mathematical, computational, and statistical techniques to address challenges in business and society. Collaboration, innovation, and interdisciplinarity are at the heart of our research and teaching.

Curious?
Are you interested in this exciting position but still have questions? Feel free to contact Dr. Ioannis Diamantis at i.diamantis@maastrichtuniversity.nl for more information. Do you have any questions regarding the procedure, please contact recruitment@maastrichtuniversity.nl.

Applying?
Or are you already convinced and ready to become our new PhD Candidate in Topological Data Analysis for Financial and Economic Systems? Apply now, no later than 08/10/2025, for this position.

Please upload your CV, motivation letter, grade list, contact information of 2 referees, research plan and publication list.

Maastricht University is committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that diversity in our staff and student population contributes to the quality of research and education at UM, and strive to enable this through inclusive policies and innovative projects led by teams of staff and students. We encourage you to apply for this position.