PhD position Safe Use of AI in Telecommunication Networks, NExTWORKx

Are you curious about how network models and AI can shape the future of telecommunication networks? Do you enjoy exploring mathematical models and working with network data? Join our team!

Job description
Telecommunication networks are becoming increasingly programmable and automated. Various types of software can now be integrated to operate these networks in the cloud. While this enhances performance, for example through the use of AI-based algorithms, it also raises important questions about security and reliability. How can we use network modeling to ensure these technologies are operated safely and efficiently?

Scientific challenges for this exciting PhD project include: how to model the various interdependencies between hardware and software components, using network modelling; how to assess the safety of such interconnected critical infrastructure and how to design and implement efficient algorithmic implementations of the theoretical models.

You will be supervised by Dr. Caterina De Bacco from the Network Architecture and Services Group and Dr. Eric Smeitink from KPN, working closely with a collaborative team.

This PhD position is part of the NExTWORKx* partnership, a strategic collaboration between KPN and Delft University of Technology. Curious to learn more about the project? Feel free to visit our website, where you’ll also find other exciting PhD opportunities related to this collaboration.

You’ll become part of a diverse, enthusiastic team of academic staff, PhD students, and postdocs in the Network Architectures and Services Group. Together, we explore the characteristics of complex networks, from man-made infrastructures to biological, brain, and social systems. We foster a friendly, supportive environment where we regularly meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate. You’ll also receive comprehensive training to help you grow as a researcher.

Requirements
In order to be successful, you will have:

• MSc in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics or related disciplines with a strong background in mathematical modeling, algorithms and probabilistic modeling
• Good programming skills in Python/C/C++
• Good oral and very good written skills in English
• Enjoys working in an international and inter-disciplinary research group

Because of project definitions, we are looking for EU citizens.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.

Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2872 per month in the first year to € 3670 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact dr. Caterina de Bacco via c.debacco@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than December 1, 2024 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• 1-page motivational letter
• Degree transcripts
• The names and contact information of at least two relevant references.

You can address your application to dr. c. de Bacco.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• A knowledge security check will be part of the selection procedure.
  (for details page 45: national knowledge security guidelines).
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

32 - 40 hours per week

Mekelweg 5