The UCD School of Economics is offering an exciting, fully funded PhD Fellowship in Econometrics and Machine Learning, supported through the Ad Astra Fellowship of Dr. Eoghan O’Neill. This prestigious position provides an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated scholars interested in econometrics, machine learning, and Bayesian statistics.

About the Fellowship

The successful candidate will join the UCD School of Economics, one of Ireland’s leading centers for economic research and education. The PhD fellowship will focus on innovative research at the intersection of econometrics, machine learning, and Bayesian methods, with possible topics including:

Development of novel Bayesian machine learning models for causal inference with economic data

Application of machine learning techniques to macroeconomic forecasting

The position is fully funded for four years and includes structured coursework in the first year through UCD’s PhD Programme in Economics.

Funding and Benefits

• Tax-free stipend: €25,000 per year for four years, with additional top-ups
• Full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the fellowship
• Research support grant: €4,000 per annum for travel, conferences, and research expenses

Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates will have a strong academic background in:

• Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline
• Excellent quantitative and analytical skills
• Experience or interest in coding (R, Python, or C++) — not essential but advantageous
• Proficiency in English, with strong writing and communication skills
• Prior exposure to Bayesian statistics or machine learning methods is desirable but not mandatory.

Application Process

Apply to: Dr. Eoghan O’Neill at eoghan.oneill1@ucd.ie

Applications must include:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including two references (letters can be attached or sent separately)
• Copies of diplomas and transcripts of records
• A cover letter outlining research interests and motivation for applying
• A sample of previous research (Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis, or research paper)

Shortlisted candidates will be subject to approval by the UCD Graduate Research Board and must complete formal admission via the UCD online system.

Programme Structure

During the first year, students complete core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, and attend weekly seminars. Subsequent years focus on independent research, supervised by a Research Studies Panel, with the final goal of completing a PhD dissertation composed of publishable research papers.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at UCD

UCD is deeply committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The university encourages applications from all backgrounds and identities. It supports a welcoming academic environment through initiatives such as:

• Athena SWAN for gender equality
• University of Sanctuary for refugees and migrants
• Age-Friendly University principles
• Networks supporting multicultural and LGBTIQ+ inclusion

Deadline: January 31, 2026

For informal inquiries, contact: Dr. Eoghan O’Neill
Email: eoghan.oneill1@ucd.ie

Apply here: Application

For more information: https://www.ucd.ie/economics/

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth