Summary
ELLIS Institute Finland, a rapidly expanding research hub in AI and machine learning, invites applications for fully funded Postdoc and Doctoral Student positions. These roles offer a unique opportunity to engage in ambitious, high-impact research within a cooperative, multidisciplinary, and international environment.
Designation
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Doctoral Student (PhD Candidate)
Research Area
We welcome applications across all areas of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and related fields. Research can be theoretical, applied, or span both. The institute focuses on the fundamentals of applied AI, including:
- Data-efficient probabilistic machine learning
- Generative modelling
- Amortized inference
- Interactive and cooperative machine learning
- Transformative multidisciplinary collaboration
A strategic focus area is AI for Health, including building a nationwide foundation model for healthcare decision-making.
Location
Positions are based within ELLIS Institute Finland and the wider ELLIS community in Finland. ELLIS Institute Finland operates in partnership with Finnish universities (e.g., Aalto University, University of Helsinki, Tampere University) and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
Eligibility/Qualification
For Doctoral Student Applicants:
- Hold (or expect to shortly receive) a Master’s degree in computer science, statistics, electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
- Previous experience in machine learning, statistics, artificial intelligence, or a related field, preferably demonstrated by strong performance in relevant studies.
For Postdoctoral Researcher Applicants:
- Hold (or expect to shortly receive) a PhD degree in computer science, statistics, electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field.
- Previous experience in machine learning, statistics, artificial intelligence, or a related field, preferably demonstrated by a publication record in a top-tier venue in machine learning-driven fields, or in other top-tier venues linked to the possible supervisor’s research.
General Requirements for All Applicants:
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Other merits demonstrating suitability for a researcher position may be considered.
Job Description
Successful candidates will join groups of experienced supervisors, benefiting from a strong balance of independence and guidance. The roles involve conducting ambitious, high-impact research in AI and machine learning. The research environment offers:
- Cutting-edge computational resources, including EuroHPC LUMI (one of the world’s fastest and greenest supercomputers) and an upcoming pan-European AI-optimized supercomputer.
- Close collaborations with leading machine learning researchers in Europe and globally.
- Opportunities to work with companies and startups, fostering innovation and real-world applications of AI.
- An inclusive and international workplace with English as the working language.
Postdoc positions are typically offered for up to three years, and doctoral student positions for four years. Starting dates are flexible and agreed individually. All positions are fully funded, with salaries based on the Finnish universities’ pay scale.
Entrepreneurial Postdocs interested in transitioning AI technologies from research to startups are also encouraged to apply (separate application required).
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the respective links below. Required documents (in English and PDF format) include:
- Cover letter (1–2 pages): Explain your research interests, how your background aligns with them, desired supervisors, and future research plans (especially for postdocs).
- CV
- List of publications: Highlighting up to five key papers with links (postdoc applicants; PhD students if applicable).
- Transcripts: PhD and MSc studies (postdoc applicants) or MSc and BSc studies (doctoral student applicants).
- Degree certificate: Of your latest degree; if not yet obtained, a plan of completion must be submitted.
In the application form, you will also be asked to provide contact details for 2–3 senior academics who can provide references (at least one referee should typically be an independent investigator, principal scientist, group leader, lecturer, or professor).
You may indicate interest in working with multiple supervisors within a single application.
Last Date for Apply
September 21, 2026, at 23:59 EEST (UTC+3)
Apply Links
- Apply for Postdoc positions: Submit your application here
- Apply for Doctoral Student positions: Submit your application here
