PhD project in modelling internal displacement with agent-based simulations and policy scenarios

We are offering a self-funded PhD position with our Department of Computer Science at Brunel University of London, focusing on modelling internal displacement using agent-based simulations and policy scenarios.

This research project aims to adapt existing agent-based models, or develop new ones, to reproduce internal population displacement patterns within specific countries.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

If you have any questions about the project or would like to arrange an informal discussion, please reach out to Dr. Derek Groen at derek.groen@brunel.ac.uk.

Research area

This project focuses on using agent-based simulations to model internal displacement patterns and assess policy scenarios. You will develop models that can inform decision-making by humanitarian organisations.

Project description

Internal displacement due to conflicts, natural disasters, and other crises is a significant global issue.

This PhD project aims to adapt existing agent-based models or develop new ones to accurately reproduce internal population displacement patterns within specific countries. A key research question is to assess which types of internally displaced persons (IDP) situations can be effectively reproduced using existing models and which ones require the development of additional tools.

The work will contribute towards creating a general-purpose and widely validated IDP modelling approach. This approach can then be used to inform decision-making by humanitarian organisations, helping them to better understand and respond to internal displacement scenarios.

Key Focus Areas

As a PhD candidate, your potential focus areas include:

• Adapting and developing agent-based models to study internal displacement
• Assessing the effectiveness of existing models in reproducing IDP situations
• Developing new tools for scenarios that cannot be effectively modeled with existing approaches
• Contributing to a general-purpose IDP modelling approach for humanitarian decision-making

Research Approach

This project employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining agent-based simulations with policy scenario analysis to enhance our understanding of internal displacement. You will:

• Explore agent-based simulation techniques to model internal displacement
• Collaborate with experts in computer science, social sciences, and humanitarian studies
• Develop comprehensive models to inform policy and decision-making

Who we're looking for

Your passion for exploring and advancing this field will be essential, as will your innovative thinking to develop creative solutions to complex problems. Strong interpersonal skills will enable you to collaborate effectively with a diverse team of researchers.

While previous experience in conducting research, especially in simulation techniques or humanitarian studies, is highly valued, it is not a strict requirement.

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.