2025 European Spatial Data Research Award

for the best PhD thesis related to geoinformation science

Since 2016, EuroSDR has recognised contemporary PhD theses that have significantly contributed to the development of geoinformation science in the context of national mapping and cadastral agencies (NMCAs). To enhance collaboration between European academia and NMCAs, as well as to engage young scientists in its research endeavours, EuroSDR is pleased to announce its 2025 competition: 

Eligibility

To be eligible, the PhD thesis must:

• Have been successfully defended between January 2024 and July 2025;
• Be related to one or more of the research areas covered by EuroSDR and its commissions (see www.eurosdr.net);
• Have been completed at a university in Europe.

Application Requirements

Applicants are asked to submit the following materials:

• A cover letter (max. 300 words in English) describing the main contribution and impact of the thesis from the perspective of national mapping and cadastral agencies;
• A PDF copy of the successfully defended thesis (in any European language);
• An extended abstract (1,000–1,500 words in English);
• A certificate confirming the date of the successful PhD defence;
• A Curriculum Vitae;
• Independent reviews of the thesis (if available, e.g., from examiners);
• An optional video presentation (max. 3 minutes in English) summarising the objectives, methods, key findings, and scientific impact of the thesis.

While optional, applicants are strongly encouraged to include a short video presentation to enhance the visibility and accessibility of their work.

File Naming Convention

To facilitate handling, please name each file using the following format:

• surname_firstname_coverletter.pdf
• surname_firstname_thesis.pdf
• surname_firstname_abstract.pdf
• (and so on for each document)

Submission Deadline

All application materials must be submitted by email to EuroSDR@mu.ie no later than August 25, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Evaluation and Award

Submissions will be reviewed by a committee appointed by the EuroSDR Board of Delegates. The winner will be notified by September 26, 2025.

The author of the selected thesis will receive a €500 award and will be invited to present their work at the 147th EuroSDR Board of Delegates Meeting, to be held in November 2025 in Zagreb, Croatia.