Christian Hardmeier

The IT University of Copenhagen is advertising a fully funded PhD position in natural language processing and computer science focused on uncertainty quantification and how large language models can express confidence in ways users understand. The project combines NLP , machine learning , and experimental linguistics . The successful candidate will develop methods for controllable uncertainty expression in LLMs and study how communicated confidence aligns with users’ perceptions. The work includes both computational development and validation through user studies with human participants. The position is based at the IT University of Copenhagen and is jointly led by Christian Hardmeier (ITU), Jes Frellsen (Technical University of Denmark), and Hannah Rohde (University of Edinburgh). An extended research stay in Edinburgh is an essential part of the project. Eligibility depends on degree level: applicants for the 3-year route should hold a master’s degree or equivalent in computational linguistics, NLP, data science, AI, computer science, experimental linguistics, or a related field; applicants for the 4-year route should hold a bachelor’s degree in one of those areas plus one year of master’s-level study. Strong Python skills are required, and experience with natural language data, PyTorch, LLM training/fine-tuning/evaluation, semantics/pragmatics, psycholinguistic studies, and academic publishing are desirable. The application deadline is 24 June 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Applications must be submitted in English through the university’s e-recruitment system and include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency. Publications or a master’s thesis are recommended but not required.