The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Southern Denmark (Odense) invites applications for a PhD scholarship in computer science under the umbrella of the Danish Foundation Models initiative. 

The proposed starting date is 1 October 2026 or soon thereafter. The appointment will be made for a term of three years at a competitive salary and will follow the PhD study programme at the Faculty of Science.

The ideal candidate has a background in or experience with one or more of the following topics:

• Development of deep learning models

• Mathematical foundations of machine learning

• Optimal deployment of AI systems

The candidate is expected to hold a relevant MSc degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, (Applied) Mathematics, Computational Statistics or another field that provides a sufficient degree of background in computer science, artificial intelligence, mathematics and data science.

Fluency in English and Python are required. Fluence in Rust/C++, experience working with deep learning software stacks, extensive software development experience, and knowledge of machine learning frameworks are pluses.

MSc candidates about to complete will also be considered and should attach a statement from their supervisors regarding their impending completion.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of advanced language models and derived use cases by focusing on one or more of the following topics in their PhD project:

• LLM customization and test-time scaling

• Agentic behaviour and tool use

• Multi-modality and interactivity

The successful candidate will become part of the Odense NLP group under the Centre for Machine Learning. The centre is part of the Data Science & Statistics section at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. The department offers an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities and strong traditions for collaboration across research groups, departments and faculties, and with other organisations like educational institutions, municipalities, and companies. The degrees offered by the department include BSc and MSc degrees in Computer Science, a BSc degree in Artificial Intelligence, and an MSc degree in Data Science.

For more information: https://www.sdu.dk/da/om-sdu/job-sdu