The Department of Electronic Systems at Aalborg University invites applications for a fully funded PhD stipend focused on developing quality news-chatbots for Public Service Media, within the Wireless Communication study programme. The successful candidate will join the CMI Section (Communication Media and Information Technologies) in Copenhagen, a vibrant research environment renowned for its international profile and interdisciplinary collaboration. Aalborg University is globally recognized for its excellence in electronic engineering, with a strong emphasis on societal impact and problem-based learning.

This PhD project (RePIM DC3) centers on advancing AI-based chatbots using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to enhance the quality of answers provided by news chatbots. The primary case study is 'NEO', a chatbot developed by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva, currently deployed in several European public service media organizations. The research aims to improve NEO's answer quality to meet the highest journalistic standards and integrate seamlessly with editorial profiles. Key challenges include implementing a 'deep search' mode that incorporates external trusted sources, developing automated quality control via agentic workflows, and adapting NEO for diverse user needs and contexts, such as social media plugins versus news websites. Performance improvements using graph-based analysis and hybrid retrieval methods are also explored, with flexibility for candidates to propose additional topics in collaboration with supervisors.

The position is part of RePIM – Revisioning Public Interest Media, a four-year Marie Sklodowska-Curie (MSCA) Doctoral Network dedicated to reimagining the future of public interest media in a data-driven, platform-dominated landscape. RePIM equips doctoral researchers with advanced analytical and managerial skills, fostering strategic innovation and organizational change across European media contexts. The project involves close collaboration with other doctoral candidates, academic exchanges, and a paid internship at EBU in Geneva, as well as a secondment at Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or data science, with experience in AI, Large Language Models, RAG, data science, embeddings, and software agents. Familiarity with Python, LangChain, LangGraph, MongoDB, Milvus, and Elastic Search is advantageous. Additional knowledge in media science, user experience design, journalism, or communication studies is welcome. Candidates must demonstrate English proficiency and meet MSCA mobility requirements, including not having resided in Denmark for more than 12 months in the past 36 months. All nationalities are encouraged to apply, and diversity is a core value at Aalborg University.

The PhD stipend is funded by the MSCA Doctoral Network, with salary and employment terms governed by the Danish AC collective agreement. The position includes paid research stays in Geneva and Brussels, participation in summer and winter schools, and integration into a dynamic, international research community. The anticipated start date is May 1, 2026, with a comprehensive application process involving document submission, interviews, and expert assessment.

To apply, submit your application by email to [email protected] with the subject 'Application for DC3 position', including your Master's certificate, transcripts, motivation letter, CV, proof of English proficiency, and a one-page research reflection. Additional documentation such as translations and certificates is encouraged. For further details, visit the RePIM project website and the official vacancy page.

For questions, contact Associate Professor Jannick Kirk Sørensen at [email protected]. Join Aalborg University and contribute to world-class research that shapes the future of public interest media through innovative AI and communication technologies.