University of Amsterdam
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Two PhD Positions in AI for Science, Foundation Models and Mechanistic Interpretability University of Amsterdam in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
This is a salaried, four-year PhD employment contract for 38 hours per week, initially 18 months and extendable after satisfactory evaluation. The gross monthly salary is €3,204–€4,051 depending on relevant experience, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. Benefits include pension through ABP, 232 vacation hours, parental and partner leave, professional development opportunities, and other employment allowances. The Dutch 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
Deadline
Jan 15, 2027
Country
Netherlands
University
University of Amsterdam
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About this position
The University of Amsterdam is offering two four-year PhD positions in Artificial Intelligence for Science within the Faculty of Science. The projects address how foundation models can support scientific discovery while making their predictions useful, reliable and understandable.
The first PhD project focuses on fine-tuning and retrieval for multimodal foundation models in environmental science. Research topics include parameter-efficient adaptation, retrieval-augmented models, scientific evidence grounding and evaluation across satellite imagery, atmospheric data, time series, simulations and environmental applications such as air quality, PFAS, microplastics, soil and water contamination, oil spills and plastic detection. The project is embedded in the Information Retrieval Lab and led by Prof. Evangelos Kanoulas and Dr. Ana Lucic.
The second PhD project concerns mechanistic interpretability of machine learning models. The candidate will develop post-hoc methods for understanding information flow through deep neural networks, evaluate interpretability techniques, connect empirical model behaviour with theories of computation, and contribute to safer and more reliable AI. Potential models include transformers and graph neural networks, with applications ranging from social network analysis to molecular simulation.
Applicants need an MSc in artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or a related field, demonstrated machine-learning experience, excellent Python skills and fluent English. The application should contain a motivation letter, Master-level module list and official transcript, writing sample, and detailed CV. A GitHub repository, portfolio or relevant projects are encouraged.
The positions are salaried PhD contracts for four years, initially 18 months subject to satisfactory evaluation, with a gross monthly salary of €3,204–€4,051, plus holiday and year-end allowances and extensive employment benefits. Applications close on 15 January 2027.
Funding details
This is a salaried, four-year PhD employment contract for 38 hours per week, initially 18 months and extendable after satisfactory evaluation. The gross monthly salary is €3,204–€4,051 depending on relevant experience, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. Benefits include pension through ABP, 232 vacation hours, parental and partner leave, professional development opportunities, and other employment allowances. The Dutch 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
What's required
Applicants must hold an MSc in artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related discipline; have a demonstrable background in machine learning; possess excellent Python software engineering skills; and be fluent in written and spoken English. Applications should include a motivation letter of up to one page, a list of Master-level modules with an official grade transcript, a writing sample such as a Master's thesis, term paper or publication, and a detailed CV including months of education and work experience. A GitHub repository, portfolio website or relevant projects are strongly encouraged. A knowledge security check may form part of the selection procedure.
How to apply
Apply online through the vacancy page's red Apply button by 15 January 2027. Submit a motivation letter, Master-level module list with official transcript, writing sample, and detailed CV in the requested format; include a GitHub, portfolio or project link if available.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.