A doctoral (PhD) student in Computer Engineering focusing on AI for Industrial IoT - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research center STC (Sensible Things that Communicate), is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the fast-growing Communication Systems and Networks research group. This position focuses on the design of compact, explainable, and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) models for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)-driven distributed intelligence systems. The rapid growth of IIoT technologies has transformed industrial sectors, enabling interconnected systems and intelligent decision-making. Deploying AI and machine learning (ML) models in these systems presents challenges regarding explainability and responsible deployment of AI. The research will be conducted in the research project DRIVE within the STC research center. You will also actively collaborate with other researchers within the research group, as well as other external partners in both academia and industry. If you are passionate about cutting-edge research in the intersection of AI, IIoT, and responsible technology, and possess strong skills in machine learning, model optimization, and ethical considerations, we encourage you to apply. Join us in shaping the future of IIoT-driven distributed intelligence systems.

Job description
Independent third-cycle studies encompassing research (100%). The goal of this research is to develop AI/ML models that not only prioritize compactness and security but also focus on making them explainable and aligned with responsible AI principles. Compactness ensures optimal resource utilization in resource-constrained IIoT environments, striking a balance between model size and performance. Explainability enhances transparency, trust, and user acceptance, enabling stakeholders to understand the decision-making process of the models. Responsible AI principles encompass considerations such as fairness, bias mitigation, privacy protection, and robustness against adversarial attacks, ensuring the ethical and responsible deployment of the models. This PhD position aims to bridge the gap between the requirements of IIoT-driven distributed intelligence systems and the design of AI/ML models (i.e., Federated Learning models, Transformer models, etc..). By addressing the challenges of compactness, explainability, and responsible AI, we seek to enable the development of AI/ML models that are secure, interpretable, and aligned with ethical guidelines. The research outcomes will contribute to real-world industrial applications, empowering industries with efficient, explainable, and responsible AI/ML models.

Entry requirements
To be considered for a PhD position, the applicant must meet the entry requirements for admission to Mid Sweden University´s third-cycle programme. To meet the entry requirements, the applicant must have a second-cycle degree, or have completed at least 240 ETCS credits of which at least 60 credits should be second-cycle courses. An additional requirement is that 90 credits of the 240 total must consist of courses in computer engineering, computer science, or other closely related subjects. The applicant is also eligible for consideration if s/he has acquired the corresponding knowledge in some other way.

Assessment criteria
In addition to the formal eligibility requirements, the selection will also be based on other work (e.g., thesis), advanced level courses and interviews with the applicants. A strong background in mathematics, including statistics, optimization, and linear algebra, is essential. Additionally, candidates must possess significant expertise in ML/AI, Cloud/Edge computing and distributed systems. Moreover, candidates should demonstrate proficient programming skills in Python, Java, and C++ or at least one of these languages. Fluent written and oral communication in English is mandatory.

Personal qualities
Qualities such as the ability to collaborate, take initiatives, and suitability for doctoral studies will be weighed together with the formal subject knowledge.

Employment process
Processing of the appointment will comply with the provisions in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance, and will be carried out in accordance with Mid Sweden University’s Employment Procedures.

Terms of employment
The doctoral studentship position corresponds to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a Degree of Doctor. The entry date is October 1st, 2023.

Initial doctoral student positions are valid for a maximum of one year, after which the position may be renewed by no longer than two years at a time. Provisions regarding doctoral studentship employment can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Place of employment: Sundsvall

Salary: In accordance with Mid Sweden University’s salary scale for doctoral students.  

Information
For more detailed information contact the Head of department, Professor Mikael Gidlund, mikael.gidlund@miun.se , or Dr. Patrik Österberg, head of department, patrik.osterberg@miun.se. Or visit the research group online at www.miun.se/stc/csn.

Application
Application documents must be submitted in Swedish or English. The application should include a verified CV, copies of official transcripts and degree certificates. A brief description of the applicant's visions and goals and a research plan (3 pages) as well as other documents the applicant would like to refer to.

Please send in your application through our recruitment system no later than August 15th, 2023.