PhD student position in information-theoretic generalization bounds

Machine learning algorithms are a crucial component of the data-scientist toolbox. However, the empirical success of modern machine-learning algorithms is still a puzzle to theoreticians. The goal of this PhD project is to use tools from information theory i) to explain why modern machine-learning algorithms perform so well and ii) to guide their design. Additional information on the project are available here.

The selected candidate, who will be jointly supervised by Prof. Giuseppe Durisi at the Department of Electrical Engineering, and Prof. Rebecka Jörnsten at the Department of Mathematical Sciences, will be part of a large network of junior and senior researchers at Chalmers performing research in theoretical machine learning.

This PhD position is funded by the Wallenberg AI, autonomous systems, and software program (WASP), a major national initiative for strategic basic research, education, and faculty recruitment in artificial intelligence, and the largest individual research program in Sweden. The application documents of the selected candidate will be submitted to the WASP board, for final approval.

Information about the department
At the Department of Electrical Engineering (E2), we conduct internationally renowned research spanning many fields and including information and communication theory, machine learning, and signal processing. We offer a dynamic, international research environment with about 150 employees from more than 20 countries, and an extensive national and international collaboration network that encompasses both other academic partners and industry.

The position of Ph.D. student at Chalmers University of Technology is a full-time temporary employment with a competitive monthly salary and full social benefits. The position is limited to a maximum of four years plus teaching and other departmental duties. There are no tuition fees for Ph.D. studies at Chalmers. The starting date is tentatively January 2023.

After completing Ph.D. studies at Chalmers University of Technology, you will be in great demand from both Swedish and international industry. You will also have an excellent basis for further academic research. Candidates with any nationality are welcome to apply.

Major responsibilities
As a PhD student, you are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and to communicate the results of your research (verbally and in writing) in major journals and conferences. The position includes also teaching at the undergraduate and M.Sc. level and other departmental duties, up to 20% full time (the employment contract is extended beyond the 4 years, accordingly).

Conditioned on the approval from the WASP board, the selected candidate will be part part of WASP graduate school, which provides specifically designed PhD courses, international research visits, study visits at industry partners, and cooperation with several partner universities in and outside Sweden; 364 PhD students from 7 universities in Sweden are currently part of this graduate school.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have (or be close to obtain) a master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits. You should have a strong background in mathematics and machine learning and high grades in the core courses within these two subjects. Knowledge of information theory is meritorious. 

The ideal candidates for this position have a strong interest in pursuing theoretical research, are curious, creative, and independent, are able to present their ideas and findings effectively, and like to work in a collaborative international environment. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
Read more and apply here:https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10639


Application deadline: 16 August, 2022

For questions, please contact:

Professor Giuseppe Durisi, Department of Electrical Engineering
Email: durisi@chalmers.se

Professor Rebecka Jörnsten, Department of Mathematical Sciences
Email: jornsten@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!