University of Basel
Just Landed
Posted Yesterday
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
Switzerland
University
University of Basel
Apply for this position
Keywords
Suggested positions
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.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Professors
Professor
Switzerland
Research Interests
Artificial Intelligence
Reinforcement Learning
Computer Science
Large Language Models
Mathematics
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.