Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology
6 days ago
PhD Candidate in Large Language Models for Data Extraction and Reasoning in Materials Science Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
PhD position funded by the Research Council of Norway and collaboration partners; employment is for 3 years. Gross salary is normally NOK 550,800 per year, with a 2% statutory pension contribution deducted. The position is conditional on external funding.
Deadline
Sep 20, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology
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About this position
NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) is advertising a PhD Candidate position in large language models (LLMs) for data extraction and reasoning in materials science at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering in Trondheim, Norway.
The project focuses on developing and evaluating LLM-assisted methods for extracting, organising, and assessing complex scientific information related to materials. The initial application is phase diagrams and related data for inorganic materials, particularly oxides. The work also includes adapting existing LLMs to answer complex materials-science queries and to formulate research hypotheses that can be benchmarked through experiments or computational simulations.
The PhD candidate will join the FACET research group (Functional Materials and Materials Chemistry) and collaborate with Norsk Regnesentral (The Norwegian Computing Centre). The candidate will be employed and supervised by NTNU, with co-supervisors from Norsk Regnesentral and extended research stays there.
Academic keywords: machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, scientific data analysis, computational materials science, electronic structure calculations, thermodynamic modelling, inorganic materials, oxides, phase diagrams.
Eligibility highlights: a relevant master's degree in materials science, solid-state chemistry, condensed matter physics, or a closely related field; strong academic results; admission eligibility for the doctoral programme; documented Python or related programming experience or computational materials-science/chemistry experience; and strong English communication skills. Experience in ML, NLP, DFT, tight-binding, MD, CALPHAD, or interdisciplinary AI-for-science work is an advantage.
Funding and terms: the position is funded externally, runs for 3 years, and offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per year (with statutory pension deduction). NTNU also mentions an open and inclusive research environment, career guidance, and free basic Norwegian language training.
Application deadline: 20 September 2026. Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no with a cover letter, CV, degree transcripts/diplomas, a short description of previous research or project work, and contact details for three referees.
Funding details
PhD position funded by the Research Council of Norway and collaboration partners; employment is for 3 years. Gross salary is normally NOK 550,800 per year, with a 2% statutory pension contribution deducted. The position is conditional on external funding.
What's required
Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree in materials science, solid-state chemistry, condensed matter physics, or a closely related discipline, with 120 credits at master's level equivalent to a five-year Norwegian course. Master students may apply only if the degree is completed and documented before starting. A strong academic background is required, normally an average grade of B or better on NTNU's scale, or an equally strong foundation if grades are weaker but the candidate is particularly suitable. Applicants must meet admission requirements for the NV faculty's Doctoral Programme and the PhD programme in Materials Science and Engineering within three months of employment. Required experience includes Python or another relevant programming language, or computational materials science/chemistry, plus good oral and written English. Preferred experience includes machine learning, deep learning, NLP, data science, electronic structure calculations, thermodynamic modelling, scientific data analysis, and interdisciplinary research at the interface of physical sciences and AI.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge.no. Include a cover letter, CV, transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor's and Master's degrees, a brief description of previous research or project work, and names and contact information for three referees. If applicable, also attach documentation of foreign education and any HK-dir statement.
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