PhD student: Computational Imaging for Industrial Quality Control Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI) in Netherlands

The Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI), the Dutch national research institute for mathematics and computer science, invites applications for a PhD position in Computational Imaging for Industrial Quality Control. This project aims to develop advanced technologies for fast, accurate, and automated detection of internal anomalies and defects directly from imaging sensor data in high-throughput industrial workflows. The research will address two major challenges: the lack of ground truth data for supervised machine learning and the limited signal information available from high-speed sensor systems. The successful candidate will design and conduct research on computational methods that fuse computational imaging (including X-ray tomography and ultrasound imaging) with machine learning, developing data-driven, physics-aware workflows and algorithms in collaboration with industrial partners.

As a PhD student, you will engage in translational research, bridging technological innovation and industrial application, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. You will participate in interdisciplinary meetings and workshops, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation. The research will be conducted within the computational imaging group at CWI, offering opportunities to collaborate with fellow PhD students and research staff from mathematics, computer science, and imaging science backgrounds. Frequent interaction with consortium members (Leiden University, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and industrial partners) is expected, as well as contributions to teaching at the Mathematical Institute at Utrecht University.

Applicants must have a master’s degree in applied mathematics, computational physics, computer science, or a related field, with strong computational skills and preferably experience with machine learning frameworks in imaging. Affinity with imaging physics is advantageous. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills, experience with imaging technologies (such as X-ray tomography and ultrasound), and data analysis capabilities. The ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and communicate effectively across disciplines is essential. Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is required.

The position offers a gross monthly salary starting at €3,115 in the first year, increasing to €3,989 over four years, plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.33% year-end bonus. CWI provides attractive working conditions, including flexible scheduling and housing assistance for expat employees. The initial contract is for 18 months, with extension to 30 months upon positive evaluation. CWI is located at Science Park Amsterdam, a major hub for physical sciences research in The Netherlands, and is part of the Institutes Organisation of the Dutch Research Council (NWO).

CWI is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The institute fosters an informal atmosphere, short lines of communication, and organizes after-work activities and networks, including a women’s network.

To apply, submit a motivation letter, CV, email addresses of two references, grade transcript, and a copy of your Master’s thesis (preferably with a list of publications) via the application portal by June 30, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. Tristan van Leeuwen at [email protected]. Further details about the research group can be found at the group page.