PhD Position in Energy-Efficient Software Systems and Intelligent Agents for Edge and Cloud Computing

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Software Engineering section of the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute (MMMI), located at the Odense campus. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in developing intelligent software agents that autonomously optimize energy-efficient compute offloading across distributed edge and cloud environments. The project aims to address the growing challenge of ICT-related emissions and energy consumption by advancing runtime optimization techniques, including energy-aware scheduling, carbon-aware load balancing, and adaptive application reconfiguration. As a PhD fellow, you will join a dynamic, internationally recognized research institute with a strong focus on software engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The Software Engineering section is involved in multiple national and European research projects and maintains robust collaborations with academic and industrial partners. You will benefit from a supportive, open, and collaborative team environment that values innovation, professional development, and knowledge exchange. The working language is English, and the workplace is committed to diversity and inclusion. The position offers flexible work conditions, mentorship, and opportunities to expand your skills and responsibilities. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus life in Odense, Denmark’s hub for robotics and technology development. The institute encourages publication in leading journals and conferences and supports engagement with external research and industrial partners. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Embedded Systems, Artificial Intelligence, or a closely related field, equivalent to a Danish master's degree. Required skills include strong programming and system integration abilities (e.g., C/C++, Python, real-time operating systems), research experience in artificial intelligence, real-time control systems, or adaptive system architectures, and proficiency in English. Experience with machine learning for control, perception, or decision-making, and an interest in sustainable computing are considered advantages. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and strong research potential. The PhD appointment is a 3-year salaried position with a monthly gross salary of 36,608 DKK including pension, with the possibility of a higher salary step for relevant postgraduate experience. Employment is contingent on enrollment approved by the PhD School and follows Danish university collective agreements. The application deadline is December 12, 2025, with the position starting February 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. To apply, submit your application via the SDU online recruitment system, including a motivated application (cover letter), CV, degree certificates and transcripts, list of publications, and up to two relevant publications in PDF format. Additional documents such as teaching experience, reference letters, and GitHub links are highly recommended. All documents must be in English and correctly categorized according to the upload guide. For further information about the position, contact Associate Professor Mahyar Tourchi Moghaddam at [email protected] . SDU encourages applicants from all backgrounds and conducts research in critical technologies, which may require background checks. International applicants can find information about moving to Denmark on SDU’s website and through resources like WorkinDenmark. For more details about the Faculty of Engineering and its departments, visit the university’s official website.