PhD Stipends within Distributed, Embedded and Intelligent Systems

We seek PhD students that will contribute to new generations of scalable, model-based tools for cyber-physical systems based on a mathematical sound foundation, that enables trade-offs between functional safety, security, quantitative performance, and exploitation of modern machine learning technology. It is the overall hypothesis of S4OS that a full integration of model checking and synthesis with machine learning will provide the key to innovative, highly scalable methods for learning, analysis, synthesis and optimization of cyber-physical systems. 

Based on preferences, the candidates will work along one(or more) of the following different directions:
-  theoretical foundation involving quantitative models(e.g. stochastic, timed weighted, hybrid automata) and logics for behavioral and security properties,
-  efficient algorithms for model checking, learning and synthesis,
-  improved explainability and safety of machine learning models, e.g. by integrating neural and symbolic modeling paradigms,
-  tool implementation and application to complex cyber-physical systems(e.g. transport, water, energy).

Requirements:
Applicants who wish to apply for a 3-year PhD Stipend must have a master’s degree in computer science or a closely related field. Due to the project’s angle, applicants must have a strong background in one or several of the following areas: model checking, modeling and specification of quantitative systems, security, games and synthesis, machine learning, logic-oriented artificial intelligence, tool development and implementation, as well as applications of the above to complex systems. Outstanding spoken and written communication skills in English are essential.

Applicants who wish to apply for a 4-year Integrated PhD stipend must be enrolled in a relevant Master’s programme at AAU. 

Application:
The application must contain:
1.  A cover letter of max. 1 page, including(i) motivation for applying,(ii) preferred starting date(specifically if other than the project’s starting date of 1 August 2024 or 1 September 2024), and(iii) a brief explanation of the applicant’s background.
2.  A research statement(project description) related to one or more of the three indicated research directions  This description should outline the applicant’s thoughts and ideas within the overall aim of the S4OS project.
3.  CV
4.  Diploma and transcripts of records
5.  Other relevant information

You may obtain further information from Professor Kim Guldstrand Larsen, Department of Computer Science, email: [email protected]   concerning the scientific aspects of the stipend.

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a master’s degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1039 of August 27, 2013 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.

There is also an option to allocate integrated PhD stipends to individuals who have not yet completed a Master’s degree and wish to begin the PhD study in connection with the Master study. Hence, a prerequisite for this type of stipend is that the candidate is enrolled in a relevant Master’s programme at AAU. 

Stipends of this type consist of two parts: A and B. During part A candidates are enrolled simultaneously in the Master’s programme and in the PhD programme. The stipend consists of two SU-PhD Grants per month(SU= The Danish students’ Grants and Loans Scheme). One SU-PhD grant equals DKK 6.820(2024-level). SU-PhD Grants are paid for a maximum of two years. When the Master’s degree has been obtained, candidates will be employed for two years as a PhD fellow according to the present collective agreement. Part B has a maximum duration of two years.
The integrated PhD stipend is open only for appointment with starting date 1 September 2024.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information about stipends and salary as well as practical issues concerning the application procedure contact Ms. Annemarie Davidsen, the Doctoral School at The Technical Faculty of IT and Design, email: [email protected] .

For more information of The Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design: www.phd.tech.aau.dk   

The application is only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Appointment and salary as a PhD fellow are according to the Ministry of Finance Circular of 15 December 2021 on the Collective Agreement for Academics in Denmark, Appendix 5, regarding PhD fellows, and with the current Circular of 11 December 2019 on the employment structure at Danish universities. Allocation of SU-PhD Grants are according to the Ministerial Order on the State Educational Grant and Loan Scheme part 12, section II. This applies to integrated PhD stipends only.