Doctoral Candidate in AI and Optimization 80%

Start of employment is in fall 2027. Earlier starting dates such as spring 2027 are possible by agreement, temporary

The Department of Mathematical Modeling and Machine Learning (DM3L) at University of Zurich is seeking applications for a Doctoral Candidate in AI and Optimization.

We offer an exciting and stimulating environment to study and work in.

Your responsibilities

The successful candidate will work on a project in the AI and Optimization Lab with Prof. Anastasia Koloskova. The emphasis of the doctoral project is theory, or the intersection of theory and practice in areas such as optimization for machine learning, privacy, unlearning, distributed optimization or federated learning.

Your profile

We are looking for candidates with an interest in performing innovative research, strong motivation, and an interest in optimization, federated learning, machine learning, privacy, or unlearning. An ideal candidate will have:

• an excellent degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Applied Mathematics or a related field (e.g. Electrical Engineering)
• strong mathematical understanding
• experience in programming, preferably in Python
• prior experience in related topics, such as machine learning, optimization, or privacy

Furthermore, the candidate should be fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Information on your application

Please submit your complete application including:

• motivation letter
• curriculum vitae (please include your GPA in the CV)
• school and university score records
• contact details of at least two referees (please make sure they have agreed on writing a reference letter prior to listing them)

via the link below. The deadline for applications is 1st of December 2026 and desired starting date is in fall 2027, earlier starting dates such as spring 2027 are also possible by agreement. The position is offered on a fixed-term basis for a maximum period of four years. Selection will start immediately, so early submissions are encouraged.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

• Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
• Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

• Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
• Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

• Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
• Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

• Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
• Free seasonal flu vaccinations
• Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

• Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
• Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions

Conditions of Employment

• Policies of the UZH
• Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

• Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

• Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
• Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location

Department of Mathematical Modeling and Machine Learning