PhD Position in Machine Learning

 

Are you interested in answering important questions using data? Have you always wanted to think deeply about evidence, reasoning, and inference? Do you want to help put the power of machine learning and statistical inference at the fingertips of scientists and engineers?

 

The Informatics Institute and the Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab (AMLab) are looking for an ambitious PhD student to focus on machine learning. Examples of avenues of research include (but are not limited to): approximate statistical inference, model- and inference checking, generalization, and causal inference. Such topics are of crucial importance for science (e.g. life science, physics and medicine) and engineering (e.g. automated driving) applications. Projects will require deep engagement with statistical methodology (e.g. variational and Monte Carlo methods) as well as engineering practice (e.g. probabilistic programming).

 

What are you going to do

 

• Invent and evaluate novel methodologies for statistical and causal inference.
• Present your research by contributing to international conferences, workshops, and journals.
• Actively participate in the Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab and other local research communities.
• Assist in teaching activities: teaching labs and tutorials or supervising bachelor and master students.
• Complete a PhD thesis within the appointed duration of 4 years.

What do we require

 

• A MSc in Machine Learning, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Experience in programming and software development. Familiarity with Python and scientific libraries (e.g. NumPy/SciPy, Stan, TensorFlow, PyTorch, JAX) is preferred.
• Enthusiasm for the scientific process: formulating a hypothesis and conducting experiments, data collection and analysis, disseminating findings via oral presentations and writing.
• Good communication skills, proficiency in written and oral English.

Our offer

 

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of four years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of four years). This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

 

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €2,443 to €3,122 (scale P). This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

 

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.

About us

 

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

 

The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.

 

The Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab (AMLab) conducts research in the area of large scale modelling of complex data sources. This includes the development of new methods for probabilistic graphical models and non-parametric Bayesian models, the development of faster (approximate) inference and learning methods, deep learning, causal inference, reinforcement learning and multi-agent systems and the application of all of the above to large scale data domains in science and industry ('Big Data problems'). AMLab is co-directed by Max Welling and Jan-Willem van de Meent. AMLab positions itself in the AI research theme, and also with clear links to the Data Science theme of the Informatics Institute.

 

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

 

Questions

 

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

 

• Christian A. Naesseth, Assistant Professor

 

Job application

 

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We will accept applications until 10 April 2022.

 

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

• a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
• a research statement describing your interests in the topic and potential avenues of research (i.e. an idea for an initial project);
• a complete record of your courses, including grades and an explanation of the grading system;
• names and email addresses of two academic references who can provide letters of recommendation;
• a link to / a copy of a written product. Examples: thesis, research paper (working draft or pre-print is acceptable), course project, blog post.

 

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

 

The interviews will be held in the course of mid-to-late April.

 

 

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

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