PhD Position in Generative Modeling and Data-Efficient Machine Learning with Fairness and Privacy Considerations Linköping University in Sweden

Linköping University invites applications for a PhD position in machine learning, focusing on generative modeling and data-centric strategies for data-efficient machine learning, with special attention to fairness and privacy. This position is part of the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program (WASP), Sweden's largest research initiative in AI and autonomous systems. WASP offers a comprehensive curriculum, research visits, and access to a broad network of PhD students and senior researchers, supporting interdisciplinary and international collaboration.

The research project aims to develop methods for reducing dataset size without compromising model performance, promoting efficient optimization and lowering computational demands. The project also addresses fairness and privacy, especially in sensitive applications such as medical diagnosis. You will explore generative modeling to create synthetic, representative datapoints, ensuring that dataset bias is minimized and sensitive information is protected. The work involves both theoretical research and empirical experimentation with machine learning algorithms, using diverse datasets ranging from low-dimensional point sets to high-dimensional image data.

As a doctoral student, you will primarily focus on research and doctoral studies, with the possibility of teaching or departmental duties up to 20% of full-time. The project is a collaboration between the Division for Media and Information Technology (MIT) at the Department of Science and Technology, Campus Norrköping (supervised by Dr. Gabriel Eilertsen), and the Division of Statistics and Machine Learning (STIMA) at the Department of Computer and Information Science, Campus Valla (co-supervised by Dr. Sebastian Mair). You will be affiliated with both divisions, gaining access to expertise, networks, and state-of-the-art computing infrastructure, including Berzelius and the European AI Factory (MIMER).

Linköping University is recognized as a leading AI institution in Sweden, with strong connections to national research initiatives and a vibrant research environment. The university recently received the European Capital of Innovation Award as the European Rising Innovative City. The MIT division specializes in computer graphics, image analysis, scientific visualization, and machine learning, while the STIMA division integrates statistics and machine learning, regularly publishing at top conferences.

Employment is normally for four years full-time, with possible extension up to five years based on teaching and institutional duties. Initial employment is for one year, renewable for up to two years at a time depending on progress. Salary is determined by local negotiation, and employment benefits are provided by Linköping University. The position may be security classified, requiring screening before employment.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent knowledge. Fluency in English is required. Advantageous qualifications include programming skills in Python, knowledge of LaTeX and git, experience with GNU/Linux systems, strong interest in machine learning efficiency, fairness, and privacy, excellent academic results, and documented experience in implementing models and algorithms. Strong communication and collaborative skills are highly valued.

To apply, submit a cover letter, CV, transcripts, thesis or scientific text, and contact details for two references via the application link. State your preferred starting date. The deadline for applications is August 21, 2026. Linköping University values diversity and equal opportunities. For more information about WASP and the graduate school, visit WASP and WASP Graduate School.

We look forward to receiving your application!