Re-advertisement Call for applications for PhD scholarships under the Swiss
Programme for International Research Grant
I. Background
The Swiss Programme for International Research (SPIRIT) has awarded a research grant to support the project titled “Inference for Small Area Estimation through Generative Methods: A Focus
on Gender Disparities.” This collaborative effort brings together researchers from the University of
Geneva, Switzerland, and the University of Rwanda. As part of the project, three fully funded PhD
positions in mathematical statistics are being offered at the University of Rwanda.
II. Role and description
This project aims to develop new statistical inference tools to better inform evidence-based
policymaking, with a particular focus on gender-based disparities in health, employment, and income in Rwanda. While Small Area Estimation (SAE) has proven powerful for producing locallevel statistics, there is a critical gap: accurate confidence intervals (CISs) for these estimates are often missing or unreliable-limiting transparency and trust in data-driven decisions.
This project will:
– Develop a simulation-based framework for constructing accurate CIs in SAE models.
– Apply these tools to real-world challenges in Rwanda, including maternal and child health
and socio-economic gender inequality.
– Deliver open-source statistical tools that enhance local policy decisions.
III. Call for applications
Under the research funds management of the University of Rwanda’s Single Project Implementation
Unit (UR-SPIU) we call for applicants for three PhD scholarships, each being 3 years. The students
must have enrolled for a PhD in Mathematics at the University of Rwanda.
IV. Funding
The PhD candidate will be offered a monthly stipend, and travel for conferences. Also, the
registration and tuition fees at the University of Rwanda are covered.
V. Eligibility
Applicants must hold Rwandan nationality
– Applicants must be current students registered at UR
Applicants must hold a master’s degree in mathematics or related field such as statistics
– Applicant should have solid foundation in theoretical mathematics, especially in areas
essential to statistical inference.
Only PhD candidates who are currently in year 1 or year 2 will be considered.
– Applicant should have interest in working on the project and on full time basis.
– Applicant must be under 40 years of age for male applicants and under 45 years for female
applicants.
VI. Specific selection criteria
– Permanent staffs of the University of Rwanda are highly encouraged to apply.
–
Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.
– High level of English proficiency and writing skills.
VII. Application file
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
–
A cover letter addressed to the Director of the UR Center of Postgraduate Studies (URCPGS) indicating the candidate’s interest and motivation, with specific attention to interests
aligned with the areas of research specialization outlined in section II above
A current CV which includes a description of current research interests, past research
experience, and publications
Copy of National Identity and/or passport
A certified copy of transcripts of BSc and MSc courses and grades
Copies of educational certificates, if applicable
Letters of recommendation from 2 academic referees and they contact information
VIII. Selection Methodology
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview on dates that will be communicated through their
respective emails.
IX. How to apply
Applicants are requested to send the application documents listed above by email to the UR
scholarship officer; E-mail: ur-cpgscholarship@ur.ac.rw at the University of Rwanda, Centre for Postgraduate Studies, Tel:+250792988304 with a copy to Project Principal Investigator at i.ngaruye@ur.ac.rw Tel:+250788501160, not later than 14th August 2025.
X. Who to contact for any further information
For any other detailed information regarding this call, kindly contact Assoc. Prof. Innocent Ngaruye,
Project Principal Investigator at i.ngaruye@ur.ac.rw Tel:+250788501160.
Notes:
– Closing date for receipt of applications: August 14, 2025
– A candidate should submit only a single application.
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