Publisher
source

University of Basel

Just Landed

PhD Position in Post-Training Diffusion Language Models and Reasoning at the University of Basel University of Basel in Switzerland

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

This is a 100% PhD position funded by a Swiss National Science Foundation project. The University of Basel offers an excellent salary, benefits, and working conditions. The position is based in Basel and is expected to last four years, consistent with the typical PhD duration in Switzerland.

Deadline

Nov 20, 2026

Country flag

Country

Switzerland

University

University of Basel

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Keywords

Computer Science
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Reinforcement Learning
Problem Solving
Generative Modeling
Reasoning
Large Language Models
ML

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About this position

The Rhine AI research group at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Basel, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in post-training diffusion language models.

The project, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, is titled “Foundations of Post-Training for Reasoning in Diffusion Large Language Models.” The successful candidate will develop reinforcement learning methods for post-training large diffusion-based language models, investigate reasoning-aware generation strategies such as adaptive unmasking and credit assignment, and help create benchmarks for evaluating reasoning across domains, including mathematical problem solving.

The PhD researcher will conduct machine learning and artificial intelligence research, publish and present work at leading conferences such as ICML, NeurIPS, and ICLR, and collaborate with national and international AI experts. The position is based in Basel, Switzerland, starts in January 2027 or later, and normally lasts four years.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related discipline, with an exceptional academic record, strong mathematical preparation, and excellent coding and implementation skills. Experience with large language models, reinforcement learning, or generative modeling is welcome but not required. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential.

Applications should include a short motivation statement of up to 150 words, a curriculum vitae with publication list if applicable, bachelor's and master's transcripts, recommender contact details, and a recent thesis or publication where applicable. Applications are encouraged by November 20, 2026, although there is no fixed deadline and the vacancy remains open until a suitable candidate is found.

Funding details

This is a 100% PhD position funded by a Swiss National Science Foundation project. The University of Basel offers an excellent salary, benefits, and working conditions. The position is based in Basel and is expected to last four years, consistent with the typical PhD duration in Switzerland.

What's required

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field. Candidates should have an exceptional academic record, a solid mathematical foundation, strong coding and implementation skills, and the ability to run large-scale experiments. Experience with large language models, reinforcement learning, or generative modeling is advantageous, as is prior research experience, though research experience is not mandatory. Excellent spoken and written English communication skills are required.

How to apply

Submit an application through the online APPLY portal. Prepare two PDF files: a maximum 150-word motivation statement and a CV including publications, and provide bachelor's and master's transcripts, recommender contact information, and your latest thesis or one publication if applicable. Applications are encouraged before November 20, 2026, but the position remains open until filled.

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Professors

Professor

University Name
Country flag

Switzerland

Research Interests

Artificial Intelligence

Reinforcement Learning

Computer Science

Large Language Models

Mathematics