PhD Position in AI and Optimization: Parallel Portfolio Solvers for NP-hard Problems

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Southern Denmark, Odense, invites applications for PhD positions in programming languages. The positions have a duration of 3 years for candidates who have completed a relevant MSc degree, or 4 years for candidates who have completed 1 year of relevant MSc studies. The hired candidates will be part of the section of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Programming Languages (ACP), an ambitious group that fosters collaboration, research excellence, and quality education.

This position is tied to the research project “Parallel Portfolio of Parallel Solvers” which aims to advance the state of the art in solving NP-hard optimization problems by developing innovative strategies for combining parallel solvers in portfolio-based approaches. The project focuses on exploring the trade-offs between computational resource usage and solving efficiency, leveraging advanced AI techniques, statistical modelling, and heuristic methods to create a new generation of portfolio solvers. The successful candidate will work with the project’s principal investigator, Prof. Jacopo Mauro, who has extensive expertise in algorithm selection and optimization, and collaborate with a vibrant international research network that includes leading experts in AI, combinatorial optimization, and parallel computing.

The proposed starting time is March 2025, with room for flexibility. The appointment will be made at a competitive salary and will follow the PhD study programme at the Faculty of Science.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science is an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities and strong traditions for collaboration across sections, departments and faculties, and with other educational institutions, municipalities, and industries. The degrees offered by the department include BSc, MSc, and PhD degrees in computer science, a BSc in artificial intelligence, and an MSc degree in data science.

Candidate Profile
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a strong interest in algorithm design, optimization, and computational resource management. The ideal candidate has an MSc in Computer Science or a related field and experience in at least one of the following areas (acquired, for example, through coursework, projects, or an MSc thesis):

• Parallel computing and resource allocation strategies
• AI-based techniques (e.g., Random Forests, Gaussian Processes, Reinforcement Learning, Feature Selection, Optimal Stopping, Multi-armed bandit)
• Heuristic and rule-based optimization methods
• DevOps and Distributed system development

Fluency in English is required.

For further information, please contact Prof. Jacopo Mauro at [email protected]

Application Requirements
Applications should include the following documents:

• An application letter outlining your motivation for the position and relevant qualifications, with a focus on Optimization, AI, and their applications (max 2 pages)
• Curriculum Vitae.
• MSc diploma, or statement from supervisor on the expected completion of the MSc.
• Copy of MSc thesis, if available.
• A recommendation letter, if available (otherwise, please insert contacts for recommendations in the CV).

Application deadline is 15 February 2025 (end of day, Danish time).

About the Department and the University
Based in Odense, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science offers an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities as well as a strong tradition for collaboration across departments and faculties, and with other educational institutions, municipalities, and industries. More than two thirds of faculty members come from outside of Denmark.

The University of Southern Denmark was founded in 1966 and now has more than 27,000 students, almost 20% of whom are from abroad. It has more than 3,800 employees, and 115 different study programs in the fields of the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering. Its main campus is located in Odense, the third largest city in Denmark. Odense provides family-friendly living conditions with the perfect combination of a historic city center with an urban feel and yet a close proximity to beaches and recreational areas. Its location on the beautiful island of Funen is ideal with easy access by train or highway to the bigger cities of Aarhus and Copenhagen. As the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s famous fairytale author, the city is home to a vibrant and creative population that hosts numerous festivals and markets throughout the year.

Placering: Odense, Denmark