PhD: Constraint-Based Neural Language Models for Creative Language Generation KU Leuven in United Kingdom

KU Leuven is recruiting a PhD student for the ERC Consolidator Grant project TENACITY (Tensors and Neural Networks for Computational Creativity), based at the Centre for Computational Linguistics (CCL) within the ComForT research unit. The project explores how language technology can exhibit creativity, combining tensor factorization methods with neural language models. This specific PhD position focuses on the neural strand of the project, with an emphasis on constraint-based neural network architectures for creative language generation.

The research goal is to develop methods for integrating constraints into transformer-based language models so that generation becomes more novel and expressive while preserving meaning. The work will be informed by latent semantic representations developed in TENACITY and will contribute to broader research on computational creativity, NLP, and language generation. The exact research focus can be shaped by the candidate’s background and interests.

You will join the TENACITY team of PhD researchers and postdocs at KU Leuven’s Centre for Computational Linguistics and work in a high-level research environment with access to substantial computing infrastructure. The position is part of an ERC-funded project and includes funding for conference travel, with opportunities to attend international conferences, workshops, and academic training activities.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in artificial intelligence, computational linguistics, computer science, or a related equivalent qualification. Strong experience with neural networks and deep learning for NLP is required, along with a good understanding of current large language model architectures. Programming skills, preferably in Python and PyTorch, are important, as are strong English communication skills and a clear interest in language, linguistics, and computational creativity.

This is a full-time PhD position offered initially for 1 year and extendable to 4 years after a positive evaluation. The application deadline is 2026-08-10. The position is based in Leuven, Belgium, at KU Leuven.