Publisher
source

Tim van Erven

4 months ago

PhD Position in Mathematical Foundations for Explainable AI University of Amsterdam in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Available

Deadline

Oct 31, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

University of Amsterdam

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Keywords

Computer Science
Data Science
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Mathematical Modeling
Stochastic Processes
Python Programming
Technology Ethics
Explainable Ai
Mathematical Statistics
Interpretability
Statistical Modelling
Statistic
Machine learning

About this position

This PhD position at the Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics, University of Amsterdam, focuses on the mathematical foundations for explainable artificial intelligence (AI). The successful candidate will join the stochastics group and work on the NWO-funded project 'Mathematical Foundations for Explainable AI,' supervised by Dr. Tim van Erven. The project aims to develop new mathematical techniques and frameworks that make AI models more interpretable, generating understandable explanations for decisions made by machine learning systems. This research is motivated by the need for transparency in AI, such as understanding why a model predicts certain outcomes in healthcare or finance. The work will involve both theoretical development—proving mathematical guarantees for new explanation methods—and practical experimentation, including programming in Python to test these methods. The PhD student will initially select a pre-specified subproject to build expertise, then gradually shape their own research directions. Collaboration with other team members and international partners is expected. Responsibilities include conducting research, publishing in academic journals and conferences, participating in seminars, engaging in local and international collaborations, and contributing to teaching and supervision of undergraduate or Master students. The position offers a four-year contract (initially 18 months, extendable upon satisfactory evaluation), with a gross monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881, plus holiday and end-of-year allowances. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in mathematics or AI/computer science with a strong mathematical component, excellent programming skills, and strong communication abilities. The KdV Institute provides a vibrant research environment with active collaborations and participation in national research clusters. Applications are accepted via the Ellis PhD program until October 31, 2025. Interested candidates should apply through the Ellis PhD program application form and not via email or the FindAPhD page.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in mathematics or AI/computer science with a strong mathematical component, including experience in writing formal mathematical proofs, to be completed before the start of the position. Other degrees with a strong mathematical component will also be considered. Candidates should have a strong interest in mathematical machine learning theory and explainable AI, excellent programming skills in Python or similar, and excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Ability to work independently and collaboratively is required. Knowledge of mathematical machine learning theory or mathematical statistics is a plus, as are extra-curricular activities. Prior knowledge of explainable AI is beneficial but not required.

How to apply

Apply via the Ellis PhD program using the provided application link. Do not use the 'Apply Now' button on the FindAPhD page or submit applications via email. Complete the application form on the Ellis PhD program website before the deadline.

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