PhD and Integrated PhD Stipends in Neural Speech Tracking, Information Theory, and AI at Aalborg University Aalborg University in Denmark

Aalborg University invites applications for PhD and integrated PhD stipends in Foundation Models for Neural Speech Tracking, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation (NNF) New Exploratory Research and Discovery grant. The project, led by Professor Jan Østergaard, focuses on developing novel information-theoretic methods to identify and analyze temporal and spatial patterns of synergy and redundancy in brain signals elicited by acoustic stimuli. Research will be conducted within the Section on AI & Sound, a world-class environment with outstanding facilities and networking opportunities.

The PhD project is part of Research Track 2: Tracking neural and perceptual attributes, investigating how the brain learns and tracks acoustic patterns over time. The research aims to accurately capture neural encoding of perceptual statistical properties and uncover mechanisms driving auditory recognition. Methodologies include context tree models and large language models for generating embeddings that capture semantic and statistical relationships.

Applicants should have a strong background in electrical engineering, mathematical engineering, acoustics, machine learning, or related fields, with solid mathematical and analytical skills, including signal processing, optimization, machine learning, or information theory. Programming experience in C++, Python, or Matlab is required. For integrated PhD stipends, candidates must be enrolled in a relevant Master’s programme. The application must include a CV, diplomas or transcripts, and a one-page research vision statement.

The position is fully funded. Integrated PhD candidates receive two SU-PhD Grants per month (DKK 7,426 each, 2026 level) for up to two years during the Master's phase, followed by two years of PhD employment with full salary and benefits according to the Danish collective agreement. All PhD students are required to complete 30 ECTS of PhD courses, gain teaching experience, and complete a 3-6 month external research stay.

Applications must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system. The deadline is 10 May 2026. For more information, visit the official vacancy page or contact Professor Jan Østergaard at [email protected].