PhD in Fair and Explainable Lightweight Multimodal Learning Models for Document Understanding (AI, Computer Science, Joint Degree) La Rochelle Université in France

La Rochelle Université, in partnership with South East Technological University (Ireland), is offering a fully funded PhD position as part of the MSCA COFUND (Horizon Europe) project “EU-DOCS for SmUCS”. The research topic is “Towards Fair and Explainable Lightweight Multimodal Learning Models for Effective Document Understanding”, focusing on artificial intelligence, explainable AI, and multimodal learning for document analysis. This cotutelle (joint) PhD program provides interdisciplinary training and double supervision, leading to a dual doctoral degree from both institutions.

The program aims to train the next generation of researchers in Smart Urban Coastal Sustainability (SmUCS), with a strong emphasis on excellence, interdisciplinarity, and international collaboration. Doctoral students will benefit from a comprehensive training program, including transversal skills, and a 3-month secondment with a non-academic partner to gain intersectoral experience. The project is co-financed by ExcelLR and EU-CONEXUS Plus, ensuring robust support and resources for research and professional development.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) and comply with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule, meaning they must not have resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than 12 months between December 2022 and December 2025. Candidates must not already possess a PhD and should have prior research training or experience. All application documents (CV, cover letter, ID, Master’s diploma, application form) must be submitted in English as a single PDF file by December 12, 2025. The selection process emphasizes academic excellence and motivation to address challenges in sustainable development and AI.

The position offers an attractive salary above French legal minimums, a mobility allowance, and funding for research, training, and travel. The PhD duration is 36 months, with the opportunity to work in a vibrant, international research environment. For more information, candidates can consult the program guide and attend the information session on November 4. The main supervisor is Associate Professor Mickaël Coustaty at La Rochelle Université, France.

For further details and to apply, visit the official program page or contact [email protected].