Summary
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense is inviting applications for a fully funded, 3-year salaried PhD scholarship in Computer Science under the Danish Foundation Models initiative. The position starts on October 1, 2026, or shortly thereafter, and focuses on cutting-edge research in language model customization, agentic behavior, and multimodal AI.
PhD Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Position Type | 3-Year Salaried PhD Fellowship |
| Institution | University of Southern Denmark (SDU) |
| Department | Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (Odense NLP Group) |
| Location | Odense M, Denmark |
| Start Date | October 1, 2026 (or soon thereafter) |
| Application Deadline | September 18, 2026 |
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Subject Area
- Field: Computer Science / Artificial Intelligence / Data Science
- Research Focus:
- LLM customization and test-time scaling
- Agentic behavior and tool use
- Multi-modality and interactivity
- Mathematical foundations of machine learning and deep learning development
Location
- Campus: Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Background: A relevant Master’s degree (equivalent to a Danish MSc) in Computer Science, Data Science, Physics, (Applied) Mathematics, Computational Statistics, or a related field. Candidates nearing completion of their MSc may apply with a confirmation statement from their supervisor.
- Language & Technical Skills:
- Fluency in English and Python is required.
- Fluency in Rust/C++, experience with deep learning software stacks, software development, and machine learning frameworks are considered strong assets.
- Core Competencies: Background in deep learning model development, ML mathematical foundations, or deployment of AI systems.
Scholarship Description
- Appointment Type: 3-year salaried research fellow position governed by the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC).
- Research Environment: The successful candidate will join the Odense NLP Group at the Centre for Machine Learning (part of the Data Science & Statistics section), benefiting from an international, collaborative research environment and state-of-the-art facilities.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the SDU Career Portal. All documents must be in English, unlocked PDF format (maximum 5 MB per file), and must not contain Danish CPR numbers.
Required Application Materials:
- Motivated Application / Cover Letter: Uploaded as ‘Cover letter’.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including personal contact details and dates, uploaded as ‘Resume’.
- Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates with official English translations (uploaded under ‘Miscellaneous documents’).
- Publications: Full publication list (if applicable) and PDF copies of up to three of your most relevant publications.
- References: Names and full contact details (email and phone) for at least two academic/professional referees.
- Additional Qualifications: A statement detailing any other relevant skills or experience.
Last Date to Apply
- Deadline: September 18, 2026 (23:59 CET / CEST)
