Vrije Universiteit Brussel
4 days ago
Fully Funded PhD in Symbolic Explainability for Logic-Based AI Systems Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Sep 15, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
Vrije Universiteit Brussel

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About this position
Fully Funded PhD Position in Symbolic Explainability for Logic-Based AI Systems at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Computer Science, with a joint PhD opportunity involving KU Leuven.
The project sits at the intersection of Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Knowledge Representation and Reasoning, Logic-based AI, Neurosymbolic AI, and Causality. The research goal is to investigate how ideas from the causality literature, including Actual Causation, can improve the explainability of symbolic reasoning systems and help produce smaller, more understandable explanations for complex logical conclusions. The post mentions both theoretical and practical work, including the development of efficient algorithms for reasoning engines.
This is a PhD opening with a doctoral grant. The position is based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene) in Brussels, Belgium. The offer is for a full-time PhD scholarship for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months subject to positive evaluation. The grant is linked to a government scale. Additional benefits include telework allowance, hospitalisation insurance, commute reimbursement, leave days, and campus facilities.
Eligibility highlights: applicants should have obtained or expect to obtain in 2026 a master’s degree in artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, or a related field, with a strong academic record (at least cum laude). Strong mathematical and programming skills are expected, and interest in symbolic/logic-based AI is essential. Background in philosophy or cognitive psychology is considered an asset. English proficiency is required; Dutch is an asset.
How to apply: submit the application through the VUB jobs portal by 2026-09-15. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, transcripts, diploma if applicable, two references, and a writing sample such as a master’s thesis. Questions about the vacancy can be directed to Joost Vennekens.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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