WASP AI Program: PhD position in Geometric graph theory - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics at Umeå University is opening a PhD position in geometric graph theory. The position is for four years of doctoral studies which include both participation in research and postgraduate courses. Last day to apply is July 26, 2021.

Project description and tasks
This is a PhD project on the interplay between geometry, algebra and graph theory, with an algorithmic/computational flavor. We are interested in flexible frameworks (geometric realizations of graphs) and their motions. Flexible frameworks are geometric objects, but have important applications modeling articulated structures in for example robotics. The goal of this project is to create algebraic tools laying the groundwork for an experimental approach to research on flexible frameworks. A recent introduction to rigidity and flexibility of graphs can be found in this year’s Abel prize laureate László Lovász’ book Graphs and geometry. This is an attractive topic that can be specialized to a project involving either deep and interesting theory or practical experimental mathematical research, or both. We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in mathematics who is able to learn to use AI in explorative mathematical research.

The PhD candidate will take part in the activities of  the WASP PhD school (see https://wasp-sweden.org/graduate-school/), that will run graduate courses within the area of artificial intelligence (AI). Although the project is purely mathematical and suitable for a candidate who plans on pursuing an academic career, it will also lead to the development of skills that are highly relevant in many applications, such as structural engineering and architecture, material design, molecular biology and AI. 

The project is part of the mathematical track of the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software Program (WASP) and the PhD student will be enrolled in the WASP graduate school, see https://wasp- sweden.org/graduate-school/ for more information.

Qualifications

To be admitted for studies at third-cycle level the applicant is required to have completed a second-cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from abroad, or equivalent qualifications. 

To fulfill the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third-cycle level in mathematics, the applicant is required to have completed at least 60 ECTS credits within the field of mathematics, of which at least 15 ECTS credits shall have been acquired at second-cycle level. The requirements are fulfilled for example if the applicant has a Master of Science in Mathematics. However, applicants who in some other system either within Sweden or abroad have acquired largely equivalent skills are also eligible. For this project we therefore also welcome applicants with a Master of Science with a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, a Master of Science in Engineering or similar educational programmes. In some cases, partial fulfillment of a similar program is enough.

Good knowledge of English language, both written and spoken, are key requirements. Documented experience in discrete mathematics, algebra, and/or geometry is advantageous. Basic programming skills are necessary, and good programming skills is a merit.

You are expected to play an active role in the development of the project and also in the department. You are also expected to have a scientific and result-oriented approach to your work. You should therefore have excellent communication and collaborative skills.

The assessments of the applicants are based on their qualifications and their ability to benefit from the doctoral-level education they will receive. 

About the employment

The position is intended to result in a doctoral degree and the main task of the PhD student is to pursue their doctoral studies which include both participation in research and postgraduate courses. The duties can include teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%). The employment is limited to four years of full-time (48 months) or up to five years if teaching part-time. Salary is set in accordance with the established salary ladder for PhD position. The employment starts earliest in August 2021 and latest in January 2022. 

Application

A complete application should contain the following documents:

• A personal letter with a brief description of your qualifications and your research interests. Motivate why you are applying for the employment and describe how your qualifications and merits are relevant to the employment;
• A curriculum vitae;
• Certified copies of diplomas or equivalent, including documentation of completed academic courses, transcript of grades obtained, and other relevant certificates;
• Copies of relevant work such as master’s thesis or articles that you have authored or co-authored;
• Contact information for at least two reference persons (phone, email, address and affiliation, as well as the capacity in which they have interacted with the candidate).

Applicants with a degree not from a Swedish university are encouraged to provide results obtained from GMAT (and/or GRE) and TOEFL/IELTS tests if available.

The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics values ​​the qualities that an even gender distribution brings to the department, and therefore we particularly encourage female applicants.

Apply via our e-recruitment system Varbi. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. The deadline for applications is July 26, 2021.

The procedure for recruitment for the position is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance (chapter 12, 2§) and the decision regarding the position cannot be appealed.

Further information
Further information is provided by Associate professor Klara Stokes, klara.stokes@umu.se

You can also contact the head of department Åke Brännström for additional questions at ake.brannstrom@umu.se.

For more information about the department, please see 
https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-mathematics-and-mathematical-statistics/

We look forward to receiving your application!