We are pleased to invite applications for a 4-year PhD position at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and at the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR). The position is jointly funded by the Faculty of Social Sciences/HKU Research Hub of Population Studies, and the Department of Digital and Computational Demography at MPIDR.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2026
The University of Hong Kong is widely considered one of the top universities in Asia and in the world. The HKU Research Hub of Population Studies, launched by the Faculty of Social Sciences, aims to provide an understanding of local, national, regional, and international demographic patterns. The Hub focuses on multi-disciplinary research concerning various population-related issues and public policy, addressing the global needs for theoretical, methodological, and practical advancements in population and health research, building upon the expertise of academics across the Faculty of Social Science.
The Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) is one of the world’s leading demographic research centres. Institute scientists advance fundamental research in areas related to migration, longevity, and fertility, and study issues of policy relevance, such as demographic change, aging, health, intergenerational transfers, as well as the digitalization of life. Methodologically, they use novel data sources and advanced statistical and computational methods for understanding demographic dynamics. The MPIDR is part of the Max Planck Society, a network of more than 80 institutes that form Germany’s premier basic-research organization. Max Planck Institutes have an established record of world-class, foundational research in the sciences, technology, social sciences and the humanities. They offer a unique environment that combines the best aspects of an academic setting and a research laboratory.
This PhD position is an excellent opportunity for highly-motivated and qualified candidates who are interested in the opportunities offered by the best of both worlds: a world-class university in Asia, and a top-notch research institute in Europe. Upon successfully completing the PhD position, the applicant will be awarded a degree from HKU, having gained significant experience in conducting demographic research abroad.
