The Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab (AMLab) at the University of Amsterdam is offering multiple PhD positions to investigate the dynamics of deep learning through fundamental mathematical and physical principles. Funded by the Simons Foundation grant “Symmetries and their breaking in deep learning,” candidates will work under the supervision of Dr. Nabil Iqbal at the intersection of machine learning, physics, and mathematics.
Overview Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position / Designation | PhD Candidate (Multiple Positions) |
| Host Institution | University of Amsterdam (UvA), Faculty of Science |
| Research Unit | Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab (AMLab) |
| Research Area | Deep Learning, Theoretical Physics, Machine Learning Theory, Symmetries |
| Location | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Working Hours | Full-time (38 hours per week) |
| Duration | 4 years (Initial 18 months + extension upon positive evaluation) |
| Gross Salary | €3,204 to €4,051 per month (plus 8% holiday and 8.3% year-end bonus) |
| Application Deadline | 08 December 2026 |
Research Area
The successful candidates will pursue interdisciplinary research combining theoretical physics, artificial intelligence, and mathematics. Projects will focus on:
- Symmetry breaking in deep learning: Exploring how physical concepts like spontaneous symmetry breaking can explain information propagation across complex neural layers, aiding the development of new, physics-inspired architectures.
- Generative models and non-reciprocal thermodynamics: Formulating theoretical foundations for diffusion models and autoregressive transformers using non-equilibrium statistical mechanics to understand generalization dynamics.
Scholarship / Position Description
Selected PhD candidates will join AMLab and work in a collaborative environment bridging computer science and physics. Responsibilities and benefits include:
- Conducting independent mathematical and theoretical studies alongside empirical deep learning research on high-performance computing clusters.
- Publishing and presenting findings at top-tier international machine learning and physics conferences and journals.
- A 4-year fully funded employment contract leading to a doctoral dissertation.
- An attractive benefits package, including an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and eligibility for the Dutch 30% tax ruling for qualifying international applicants.
- Assisting in teaching activities, labs, and mentoring Bachelor’s and Master’s thesis students.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold an MSc degree in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a closely related quantitative field.
- Possess strong mathematical skills with an aptitude for developing abstract mathematical models of complex systems.
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of modern machine learning methods and architectures (e.g., transformers).
- Have proficiency in programming with Python and standard scientific/ML libraries (e.g., PyTorch, JAX, NumPy, SciPy).
- Fluency in English (both written and oral).
- Prior familiarity with theoretical physics concepts (such as spontaneous symmetry breaking) is advantageous but not strictly mandatory.
How to Apply
Eligible candidates should submit their application online through the official University of Amsterdam portal. All required documents (aside from the CV) should be combined into a single PDF document:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) listing months and years for all academic and professional milestones.
- Letter of motivation highlighting research interests and alignment with the project.
- Complete transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s coursework (including grades and an explanation of the grading system).
- A list of publications (if applicable).
- Names and contact email addresses of two referees capable of providing recommendation letters.
Last Date for Apply
Applications must be submitted online no later than 08 December 2026.
Click Here to Apply Official Link
