Summary
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium, is inviting applications for a Fully Funded PhD Position in Symbolic Explainability for Logic-Based AI Systems. The doctoral researcher will work on advanced research in Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), symbolic reasoning, and logic-based AI systems, focusing on developing methods that improve transparency, interpretability, and trustworthiness of AI models. (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Title | Fully Funded PhD Position in Symbolic Explainability for Logic-Based AI Systems |
| University | Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) |
| Degree Level | PhD / Doctoral Research |
| Research Area | Artificial Intelligence, Explainable AI, Symbolic AI, Logic-Based Reasoning |
| Location | Elsene (Brussels), Belgium |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded PhD Scholarship |
| Institution Type | Public Research University |
| Duration | PhD research trajectory (typically up to 4 years, subject to evaluation) |
| Eligible Applicants | International candidates |
| Application Deadline | Check official vacancy page for updated closing date |
Subject Area
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Explainable AI (XAI), Symbolic Reasoning, Knowledge Representation, Logic-Based AI Systems, and Trustworthy AI.
Location
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
Elsene (Brussels), Belgium
VUB provides doctoral researchers the opportunity to conduct full-time research within an international academic environment through its doctoral programmes and funded research positions. (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should generally meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong background in:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Logic-based systems and knowledge representation
- Programming and algorithm development
- Interest in explainable and trustworthy AI research.
- Ability to conduct independent scientific research and contribute to academic publications.
- Good written and spoken English communication skills.
Scholarship Description
The PhD candidate will conduct research on symbolic explainability for logic-based AI systems, addressing challenges related to making AI decisions understandable and interpretable.
The research may involve:
- Developing symbolic approaches for explaining AI reasoning processes.
- Designing logic-based frameworks for transparent AI decision-making.
- Combining symbolic methods with modern AI techniques.
- Improving reliability, accountability, and human understanding of AI systems.
- Publishing research findings in international conferences and journals.
The selected candidate will join VUB’s research environment and work under academic supervision as a doctoral researcher. VUB PhD candidates are commonly supported through funded research projects or doctoral fellowships. (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)
Funding Benefits
The fully funded PhD position generally provides:
- Monthly doctoral scholarship/funding according to university and Belgian research regulations.
- Research support and academic training opportunities.
- Access to international conferences, workshops, and collaborations.
- Opportunity to earn a PhD degree from Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should:
- Visit the official VUB job portal.
- Open the PhD vacancy: “Fully Funded PhD Position in Symbolic Explainability for Logic-Based AI System.”
- Prepare required documents, typically including:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research interests/statement
- Contact details of referees (if required)
- Submit the application through the online recruitment system.
VUB’s doctoral application process requires candidates to complete the university’s PhD registration and evaluation procedures after selection. (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)
Last Date to Apply
Then apply, at the latest on 15 September 2026, via jobs.vub.be, and upload the following documents:
- cover letter detailing your motivation and explaining in concrete terms how you fit the requirements of the vacancy;
- a detailed CV;
- transcripts of your academic records;
- your diploma (not applicable for VUB alumni)
- name and contact details of two references who would be willing to write a recommendation letter if asked (you do not need to contact them yourself)
- a writing sample (such as your master’s thesis)
Official Vacancy: Vrije Universiteit Brussel – PhD Recruitment Portal (VUB Jobs)
