PhD student position in the Mathematical Foundations of Bias in ML

The PhD position is aimed at understanding the bias generation and amplification process in machine learning (ML), arguably one of the most relevant issues emerging from ML technology. The candidate will have the chance to learn and further develop sophisticated theoretical methods from statistical physics and probability theory and apply these methods to relevant societal problems. During the PhD, the candidate will enjoy working in a dynamic, international environment, gaining valuable experience and collaborating with leading experts in the field. This opportunity will equip the candidate with the skills and knowledge necessary to make significant contributions to academia and the broader research community.

Information about the division and the department
The CSE department is a joint effort between Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg, operating across two campuses in the city of Gothenburg. The department is organized into four divisions and employs approximately 270 people from over 30 countries. Research within the department spans a wide spectrum, from theoretical foundations to applied systems development. High-quality education is provided at the bachelor's, master's, and graduate levels, with over 120 courses offered each year. The Data Science & AI (DSAI) division, one of the four divisions, focuses on both fundamental and applied research in AI and machine learning, upholding high international standards.

Major responsibilities
The PhD student is expected to undertake the doctoral-level research project outlined above supported and guided by the PI. This involves analysing the literature, formulating hypotheses, proposing models to verify or falsify these hypotheses, and potentially developing new theoretical methods to advance the investigation. The PhD student will be enrolled in a graduate programme in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The position includes 20% departmental work, primarily as a teaching assistant for Chalmers' undergraduate and master's-level courses or performing other departmental duties.

Read more about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must possess a master's level degree equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits in mathematics, physics, computer science, or related fields. Additionally, strong verbal and written communication skills in English are required. Basic knowledge of machine learning and coding, particularly in the training of neural networks, is also necessary.

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
The application should be marked with reference number 20240370 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, reference number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, ref.number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.


Application deadline: 2024-07-31



For questions, please contact:
Assistant Professor Stefano Sarao Mannelli, Data Science and AI, CSE,
stefano.sarao@gmail.com

*** 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 in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.