🎓 Fully Funded MSc and PhD Positions at Ontario Tech University (GVDLab)

🌟 Introduction

MSc and PhD Positions at Ontario Tech University – Ontario Tech University’s Graphics & Virtual Dynamics Lab (GVDLab), led by Dr. Muhammad Usman, is now inviting applications for fully funded MSc and PhD positions in Computer Science. This dynamic research program delves into VR, crowd simulation, AI-driven agents, and immersive environments. Exciting start terms are available in January, May, or September 2026.

🔍 Lab Overview & Research Environment

About GVDLab

Located in the Faculty of Science, GVDLab explores the crossroads of virtual environments, human-building interaction, crowd dynamics, and serious gaming. The lab develops simulation models to interpret and recreate complex human behaviors within immersive settings—ranging from architectural planning to emergency simulations.(GVD Lab)

About Dr. Muhammad Usman

Dr. Usman is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Computer Science at Ontario Tech. His expertise spans computer graphics, crowd modeling, VR, generative AI for games, and emotionally responsive virtual spaces. He completed his PhD at York University and brings diverse academic and research experience to GVDLab.(Faculty of Science)

🎯 Research Themes

Key projects offered by GVDLab include exploration into:

• Trust-based crowd dynamics
• Human embodiment in VR
• Social interactions between virtual & human avatars
• LLM-powered conversational agents within virtual environments
• Emotional awareness modeling in crowds
• AI-driven NPCs for training social skills
• Simulating bias, inclusion, and moral dilemmas in digital societies
• Digital twin city simulations for urban planning education
• Behavioral pattern recognition through interactive crowds

This research nurtures interdisciplinary scholarship—with applications spanning urban design, mental health, virtual training, and digital humanities.

💰 Funding & Support

GVDLab supports graduate students through a mix of Research Assistantships and internal scholarships. While positions are fully funded for domestic students, international applicants may require external funding.(GVD Lab)

Funding covers tuition and subsistence, offering secure financial support during your studies.

📚 Eligibility & Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates should have:

• A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, AI, Digital Media, Software Engineering, or related fields.
• A thesis-based master’s degree for PhD applicants.
• Strong technical skills in Unreal Engine, Unity3D, VR/AR toolkits, 3D modeling, or motion capture.
• Prior research experience: one or more first-author publications in reputable venues for PhD candidates.
• Good academic standing, typically with a GPA of 80% or equivalent.
• English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 83) or equivalent credentials if applicable.

🚀 Application Process & Start Terms

How to Apply

Submit your application documents via email with the subject “Graduate Admission” to Dr. Muhammad Usman at muhammad.usman8@ontariotechu.net, including:

• CV/resume
• Academic transcripts (undergrad and master’s, if applicable)
• A research statement outlining your experience, goals, and reasons for joining GVDLab at Ontario Tech
• For MSc applicants: project reports; for PhD applicants: publications
• Indicate your status (domestic or international)

Start Dates

You can begin your MSc or PhD in January, May, or September 2026—offering excellent flexibility.

Follow Formal Admission Steps

While the lab handles initial recruitment, final admission follows Ontario Tech’s formal graduate admissions process—located on the University’s graduate portal.(GVD Lab)

If you require any help regarding your application, you can contact us at scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com

🌍 Why This Opportunity Matters

• Interdisciplinary Innovation: Engage with breakthroughs in VR, AI, and human-computer interaction.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Work with Unreal, Unity, motion-capture systems, and digital twin modeling tools.
• Publication Prospects: Opportunities to publish in top-tier venues like IEEE, ACM, Elsevier, EMNLP.
• Top-Tier University in a Growing Tech Hub: Ontario Tech is a young and innovative research university located near Toronto, offering a thriving academic and industry environment.
• Canada’s Diversity & Inclusion: Ontario’s multicultural environment supports international students with inclusive policies and post-study work opportunities.

🎙Summary

• Fully funded MSc/PhD in computer science at Ontario Tech’s GVDLab
• Research themes: VR, crowd dynamics, AI agents
• Flexible start dates: Jan, May, Sep 2026
• Application: email “Graduate Admission” to Dr. Muhammad Usman
• Lab located in Oshawa near Toronto, Canada

🔗 Useful Links

• Dr. Muhammad Usman’s profile at Ontario Tech(Faculty of Science)
• GVDLab home and open positions page(GVD Lab)

⁉ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are these positions fully funded?
Yes, fully funded for domestic students (via research assistantships); international candidates may need external funding.(GVD Lab)

Q2: What technologies and skills are expected?
Proficiency in Unreal Engine, Unity3D, VR/AR toolkits, 3D modeling, motion capture, plus strong analytical and research skills.

Q3: When is the application deadline?
Specific deadlines are not listed; but recruitment is open, and rolling applications are accepted for the start terms in 2026.

Q4: What funding does international applicants need?
International applicants should secure external scholarships or research funding prior to applying.(GVD Lab)

Q5: Can I start in Spring 2026?
Yes! Start terms include January, May, or September 2026.

🚀 Final Thoughts

If you’re passionate about virtual reality, crowd modeling, and artificial intelligence in immersive environments, Ontario Tech University’s GVDLab offers an exceptional research ecosystem to ignite your academic journey. With innovative themes, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and mentorship from Dr. Muhammad Usman, the lab is a bright hub for your MSc or PhD aspirations in Canada.

Apply now to secure your place for January, May, or September 2026!

🧑‍🎓 Author Bio

Mubeen Ali Niaz
Founder of ScholarshipsWithAakash.site
Mubeen curates top-ranked, fully funded scholarships for international students. With a strong background in global education and SEO, he helps students worldwide gain access to world-class research programs.

Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.

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