Jan Niehues

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is seeking a PhD candidate in the field of natural language processing (NLP), with a focus on large language models (LLMs) and multimodal language processing. This opportunity is part of an EU-funded collaborative project aimed at advancing human-machine communication through state-of-the-art AI technologies. The research group, Artificial Intelligence for Language Technologies (AIALT) at the Institute of Anthropomatics and Robotics (IAR), specializes in developing language technologies that use AI to break down communication barriers and enable real-time translation and understanding between people. The project covers a range of research areas, including large language models, multimodal models with a focus on speech language models, multilingual models, LLM agents, and LLM-based reasoning. The position offers the chance to collaborate with leading academic and industry teams in the field of speech processing and NLP. Applicants should have or be close to completing a master's degree in computer science or a related technical discipline. Strong programming skills are essential, and previous experience in deep learning is considered a plus. High proficiency in English is required for effective communication with international partners. The position is fully funded, with a competitive salary according to the TV-L E13 public sector agreement, additional pension benefits, and public transport allowance. The successful candidate will have access to excellent computing infrastructure, opportunities to attend international conferences, and a wide range of training options. The group values diversity and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. To apply, candidates should send a cover letter and CV (including contact information for two references) to Prof. Dr. Jan Niehues at [email protected] by March 15, 2026. The starting date is flexible in 2026.

The Artificial Intelligence for Language Technologies (AI4LT) group at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is inviting applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Natural Language Processing (NLP), with a focus on large language models (LLMs), speech LLMs, and multimodal language processing. This opportunity is part of an EU-funded collaborative project aimed at advancing human communication through cutting-edge AI technologies. The research will cover areas such as large language models, multimodal models with a focus on speech language models, multilingual models, LLM agents, and LLM-based reasoning. The successful candidate will have the chance to collaborate with leading academic and industry teams in speech processing. The AI4LT group, based at KIT's Institute of Anthropomatics and Robotics, is renowned for its work in developing AI-driven language technologies that facilitate natural human-machine communication and break down communication barriers. The group has a strong record in state-of-the-art speech models and translation systems, including the KIT Lecture Translator, and maintains robust industry partnerships in NLP. Applicants should have or be nearing completion of a master's degree in computer science or a related technical field, possess strong programming skills, and ideally have experience in deep learning. High proficiency in English is required. The position offers a flexible start date in 2026, access to advanced computing resources, opportunities for international conference travel, and a supportive, diverse research environment. Compensation is competitive (TV-L E13), with additional benefits such as a pension plan and public transport allowance. Applications, including a cover letter and CV with contact information for two references, should be sent by March 15, 2026, to Prof. Dr. Jan Niehues at [email protected]. The group encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.