KU Leuven is offering multiple PhD positions in the Machine Learning subgroup of the Section for Declarative Languages and Artificial Intelligence (DTAI), part of the Department of Computer Science. The DTAI lab is renowned for its research in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data mining, with a dynamic team of faculty, research managers, post-docs, and doctoral students. The group focuses on complex and structured data, background knowledge, and a wide range of machine learning and data science problems, including learning and reasoning, automated data science, learning constraints, optimization criteria, constrained clustering, statistical relational AI, supervised learning, and verification.

Current openings include projects on safe AI (verification and reasoning techniques for tree ensembles), novel approaches for learning and compressing tree ensembles, spatiotemporal data analysis in sports analytics, and time series analysis (anomaly detection, motif discovery, constraints, and domain knowledge integration). Research topics are supported by collaborations such as the Flanders AI Research Program and joint projects with international partners.

Successful candidates will work under the supervision of Prof. Jesse Davis, Prof. Hendrik Blockeel, and Dr. Wannes Meert, joining a vibrant, internationally oriented research unit at KU Leuven. The positions offer opportunities to publish, participate in workshops and public events, and contribute to cutting-edge research in AI and machine learning. The research is based at the Arenberg Campus in Heverlee, close to Leuven's center.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Computer Science or Artificial Intelligence, demonstrate advanced theoretical and programming skills, and be proficient in English. Strong communication, multi-tasking, and teamwork skills are essential. Applications should include a résumé, contact information for 2 or 3 referees, latest BSc and MSc transcripts, and a motivation letter specifying research interests and fit. The positions are open immediately and will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a supportive environment for all researchers.

Funding is available for an initial one-year PhD contract, extendible up to four years, covering salary and research expenses. For more information, visit the DTAI website or contact Prof. Jesse Davis or Prof. Hendrik Blockeel directly.