PhD Candidate in Algorithmic Fairness in Recommender Systems Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Computer Science at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on algorithmic fairness in recommender systems, with a particular emphasis on job recommendation platforms. In today’s digital landscape, recommender systems play a crucial role in helping users navigate vast amounts of content, but concerns about fairness, bias, and transparency are increasingly important, especially in domains like job recommendations that can directly impact individuals’ lives. This PhD project will investigate fairness as a multifaceted and context-dependent concept, exploring its relationship with diversity, transparency, and bias in recommender systems.

The successful candidate will collaborate with Vend AS, the operator of FINN.no, and work closely with the Norwegian Research Center for AI Innovation (NorwAI), a major research consortium involving 17 partners from industry, universities, and research institutes. The research will involve developing and testing new techniques for fairness in job recommender systems, requiring strong programming skills and a solid understanding of artificial intelligence.

The candidate will be part of the Data and Artificial Intelligence unit at NTNU’s Department of Computer Science, working in a vibrant, international research environment with opportunities for collaboration, publication, and research stays abroad. The position is funded for three years, with a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800 and additional benefits such as free basic Norwegian language training and membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent, with a strong academic record (B or better), and demonstrate proficiency in English, AI concepts, and programming.

Experience with recommender systems and research publication is advantageous. The application process requires submission of academic transcripts, a CV, a project outline, a motivation letter, and references, all in English, via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to responsible and innovative AI research in a supportive and diverse academic community in Trondheim, Norway.