Summary
The Chair of Data Systems at the University of Bayreuth, led by Prof. Dr. Ruben Mayer, is offering a full-time PhD position starting October 1, 2026. The research group is dedicated to performing high-quality research in large-scale distributed data systems, focusing heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to solve real-world problems with data at scale.
PhD position (m/f/d) for the research area of Data Systems for AI, University of Bayreuth, Germany
Designation
PhD Position (m/f/d) (Fixed-term according to the “Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz” with remuneration according to pay group 13 TV-L).
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Institution | University of Bayreuth |
| Faculty / Chair | Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science / Chair of Data Systems |
| Lead Professor | Prof. Dr. Ruben Mayer |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Start Date | October 01, 2026 |
| Remuneration | Pay Group 13 TV-L |
| Application Keyword | “Data-AI” |
Research Area
Data Systems for Artificial Intelligence (Large-scale distributed data systems, Machine Learning, and Optimization of LLM inference engines).
Location
Bayreuth, Germany.
Eligibility / Qualification
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Education: A Master’s degree in computer science (or a related field) with very good results.
- Core Knowledge: Basic knowledge and strong interest in machine learning, distributed systems, and data management.
- Programming Skills: Experience in developing software systems with high proficiency in standard programming languages such as C++, Python, or Java.
- Software Engineering: Familiarity with fundamental software engineering concepts, including version control, testing/debugging, and CI/CD pipelines.
- (Bonus) Hands-on experience with machine learning frameworks like PyTorch.
- Soft Skills: High motivation, high engagement, proactive communication skills, and strong social skills.
- Language: Excellent command of English with very good writing skills.
Job Description
As a PhD candidate, you will conduct research on data and systems aspects of state-of-the-art AI systems based on concrete problems. Your tasks will be centered around one of the following key research challenges:
- Data Management for ML: Addressing challenges in data quality, privacy preservation, and bias mitigation in training models.
- Data Heterogeneity: Handling diverse data structures, such as text, images, or graph-structured data.
- LLM Inference Optimization: Working with open-weight foundation models to optimize LLM inference engines (e.g., vLLM and LLM-d) and agentic systems, specifically tackling long-context serving under memory constraints.
Note: The position also offers funds for travel to conferences and student assistants (HiWis).
How to Apply
Interested and highly motivated candidates should apply online via the University of Bayreuth’s online application portal using the keyword “Data-AI”.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A short letter of motivation
- Complete transcripts of your Bachelor’s and Master’s studies
- (If applicable) A list of publications, including blog posts and software projects
If you have any questions regarding the position, you can directly contact Prof. Mayer at: ruben.mayer@uni-bayreuth.de.
Last Date for Apply
Open until filled.
