PhD Position in Data Systems for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Bayreuth, Germany

Summary

The Chair of Data Systems at the University of Bayreuth is inviting applications for a full-time PhD position (m/f/d) focused on Data Systems for Artificial Intelligence. Led by Prof. Dr. Ruben Mayer, the role offers research opportunities in large-scale distributed data systems, machine learning systems, long-context serving, and LLM inference engine optimization. The position is funded according to TV-L E13.

PhD Position in Data Systems for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Bayreuth, Germany

Designation

• PhD Position (m/f/d) / Doctoral Researcher (Full-time, Pay Group 13 TV-L)

Quick Overview

Research Area

• Large-scale distributed data systems for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
• Optimization of LLM inference engines (e.g., vLLM and LLM-d) and agentic systems
• Long-context serving under memory constraints
• Data quality management, privacy preservation, bias mitigation, and handling heterogeneous data (text, images, graphs)

Location

• University of Bayreuth, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science, Bayreuth, Germany

Eligibility / Qualification

• Education: Master’s degree in Computer Science (or a closely related field) with very good academic results.
• Domain Knowledge: Interest and basic understanding of machine learning, distributed systems, and data management.
• Programming: Very good programming skills in standard languages such as C++, Python, or Java.
• Software Engineering: Experience with software engineering concepts (version control, testing/debugging, CI/CD pipelines, etc.).
• Language & Communication: Excellent command of English, strong writing skills, high motivation, and proactive communication skills.
• Preferred (Plus): Hands-on experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch).

Job Description

• Conduct research on data and systems aspects of state-of-the-art AI and ML architectures.
• Address key data management challenges, including data quality, privacy preservation, bias prevention, and handling heterogeneous data formats.
• Work on optimizing LLM inference engines (such as vLLM and LLM-d) and agentic pipelines, particularly focusing on long-context serving under memory constraints.
• Publish research findings and participate in scientific conferences (travel funding available).

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the University of Bayreuth Application Portal referencing the keyword “Data-AI”.

Required Documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Short Letter of Motivation
3. Complete Transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s studies
4. (Optional) List of publications, blog posts, or software projects

Inquiries: For questions regarding the position, you can contact Prof. Dr. Ruben Mayer directly via email at ruben.mayer@uni-bayreuth.de.

Last Date to Apply

• Open until the position is filled.

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