PhD and Postdoctoral Programme in Foundations of AI at Hasso Plattner Institute and University of Potsdam University of Potsdam in Germany

The Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI) and the University of Potsdam jointly offer an innovative PhD and postdoctoral programme in the Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (AI), located in Potsdam, Germany. This programme is part of the Faculty of Digital Engineering and is designed to advance foundational AI methods, including energy-efficient and privacy-aware algorithms, fair and explainable decision-making, and mathematical theories of AI. The primary goal is to develop robust methods and theories for AI with significant societal impact, validated through real-world applications.

English is the main language of instruction, and the programme duration is eight semesters for doctoral candidates. The research school provides a highly supportive environment, featuring close supervision by experienced professors and postdocs, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and a collaborative academic network that includes partnerships with the University of Cape Town and the University of California Irvine. International collaborations are further enhanced through the Stanford-HPI partnership and joint publications with UC Irvine faculty, with ongoing efforts to establish additional European university partnerships.

The course organisation includes structured internal evaluation procedures, such as annual meetings with a thesis advisory committee, weekly research school talks, and school lunch events to foster community among PhD and Master's students. Annual retreats, exposure to external guests, and research methods curricula are integral to the programme, ensuring scientific progress and professional development.

There are no tuition fees for studying at the University of Potsdam, except for a semester administrative fee (currently 322 EUR), which includes a public transport ticket for all of Germany. The average monthly living expenses are estimated at 935 EUR, depending on accommodation choices. Several student dormitories are available, and students are encouraged to seek housing early due to a tight market.

Funding is available through the HPI Research Schools, which annually grant new full scholarships to PhD candidates and postdocs. Scholarship holders benefit from an excellent research environment, close mentorship, access to HPI’s data lab, and significant travel funding. Scholarships are not subject to income tax.

Applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, certificates/transcripts, a brief research proposal (mentioning suitable HPI research groups), work samples (such as a Master's thesis), and a letter of recommendation. Academic admission requirements include a supervision agreement, report of intent to pursue doctoral studies, university transcripts, and a CV in tabular form. While no specific language certificate is required, proficiency in English is expected for research and communication.

The University of Potsdam offers comprehensive support for international students and doctoral candidates, including welcome events, buddy programmes, tutors, visa assistance, and general services. The Career Service provides workshops, seminars, individual counselling, and a database of internships and jobs, with many services available in English.

For more information and to apply, visit the HPI application site or contact the research school at [email protected].