PhD Positions in Responsible AI – Faculty of Computer Science, University of Vienna University of Vienna in Austria

The University of Vienna invites applications for PhD positions in Responsible AI within the Faculty of Computer Science, starting August 1, 2026. As part of the Responsible Machine Learning (ML) Group, led by Prof. Dr. Martin Pawelczyk, you will join a dynamic team focused on advancing the reliability, transparency, and alignment of large-scale machine learning systems with human values. The group’s research sits at the intersection of AI Safety and Data-Centric AI, with core interests in machine unlearning, privacy-preserving techniques, robust data curation, multi-agent LLM systems, and mechanistic interpretability.

Successful candidates will develop novel machine learning methods and tools, particularly in data attribution, privacy preservation for foundation models (LLMs, VLMs), agentic AI, and explainable AI. You will invent, evaluate, and publish algorithms with theoretical guarantees, work with both structured and unstructured data, and pursue a PhD thesis within a maximum 4-year duration. The position includes presenting research at international conferences, contributing to academic community events, and supporting group and faculty administration. Teaching and student supervision responsibilities are also part of the role.

Applicants must hold (or be near completion of) a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or a related quantitative field. Essential qualifications include a strong background in machine learning, statistics, mathematics, and Python programming, ideally with proficiency in deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or JAX. Evidence of early research achievements (e.g., thesis, open-source contributions, workshop papers) and excellent English communication skills are required. Desirable skills include experience with large-scale models, distributed computing (SLURM), Linux workflows, prior research lab experience, and teaching.

The position offers a competitive salary of EUR 3,776.10 (full-time, paid 14 times a year), with potential increases for credited professional experience. The contract is initially for 1.5 years, automatically extended to 3 years unless terminated, and can be extended up to 4 years based on research progress. The University of Vienna provides a world-class location, a collaborative international academic environment, and access to over 600 free courses for ongoing skill development.

To apply, submit your academic CV, cover letter (including earliest start date and motivation), thesis or extended abstract, and official transcripts for both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Optionally, fill out the provided form. The application deadline is May 20, 2026. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Martin Pawelczyk at [email protected]. The University of Vienna is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and the advancement of women, and encourages qualified female candidates to apply.

Learn more about the lab’s work at https://martinpawelczyk.github.io/ and apply via Nature Careers.