Join the EC2U Autumn School on Geographic Data Science for Sustainability
Organised by Prof. Dr. Alexander Brenning and the GIScience Group within the EC2U Virtual Institute for Sustainable Cities and Communities, this course provides an overview of machine-learning techniques for geospatial and environmental analysis and modelling.
These methods promise to better account for nonlinearities, higher-order interactions, high dimensionality, and noisy data than ‘traditional’ statistical methods, offering improved predictive capabilities for decision-making in environmental management for sustainability. Nevertheless, particular challenges in the analysis of geospatial data relate to integrating process knowledge, interpreting black-box models, and accounting for spatial autocorrelation. Since operating these models requires statistical computing skills, the course also introduces the programming language R with its geospatial capabilities and machine-learning extensions, and students will apply the acquired skills using real-world geospatial data sets and hands-on exercises. Case studies considered in the course address environmental issues such as natural hazards and environmental contamination.
The programme combines online preparation sessions, on-site lectures, workshops, lab classes and online quizzes. After the course, students that successfully complete a project assignment (in the weeks following the autumn school) may receive 3 ECTS.
Please note: participants are expected to bring their own laptop.
Programme
Application call
The Autumn School is open to students of geographic information science, geography, earth and environmental sciences, engineering and related disciplines at the senior undergraduate level (last year of Bachelor), Master’s level, or Ph.D. level. Staff are also welcome to apply.
Participants should have:
- At least a B2 level of English (more info on CEDR levels)
- Basic knowledge of statistical methods (e.g., multiple linear regression)
- Experience with GIS or geospatial data
- Ideally, some programming skills (e.g., R or Python)
To apply, you must submit:
- A motivation letter (max. 1 page in size)
- Your CV (no page limit)
The application period has been extended until 22 May 2025 for all EC2U universities except Pavia and Linz.
Selected applicants will be notified on 3 June 2025.
Dates of the Autumn School: 7 – 10 October 2025 (10 Oct. is optional)
Capacity: 30 participants.
The Autmn School is generously supported by grants from EC2U mobilities. For detailed information contact your EC2U Local Coordinator.
Contact
For more information, please contact the GIScience Group at geoinformatik@uni-jena.de