Doctoral student in Computer Science with a focus on GPU programming

Description of the workplace

The position is in the Computer Graphics Group (graphics.cs.lth.se), which is a part of the Department of Computer Science. The Computer Graphics Group has a long history of internationally recognized research in the areas of Real-Time Rendering, Graphics Hardware and Ray Tracing. The Group has collaborations both internationally and locally, with both industry and universities, in particular a long-standing collaboration with the Nvidia Graphics Research group in Lund.

The Department of Computer Science has a wide range of research spanning Software Engineering empirical research, Software Development in programming languages and tools, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Natural Language Processing, Embedded Systems and Theoretical Computer Science.

Project description

This project aims to develop novel algorithms for the generation of Artificial Neural Networks on GPUs. By optimizing code generation using GPU architecture, we will create more efficient ANNs on GPUs achieving higher inference and training performance. These faster networks will be use in applications such as Neural Rendering and Robotics. 

The project is part of the Software track of the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software Program (WASP), and the PhD student will be enrolled in the WASP graduate school offering advanced courses and extensive networking opportunities.
For more information see https://wasp-sweden.org/graduate-school/

Work duties 

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Description of the work duties:

• Research within the subject area. 
• Teaching in the second and third cycles. 
• Collaboration with industry. 

You will be part of the WASP research school, which includes doctoral courses, summer schools, winter conferences, and international study trips. 

Admission requirements 

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant: 

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Computer Science if the applicant has: 

• at least 60 second-cycle credits at an advanced level (M.Sc. level courses) that are relevant for this topic, or 
• M.Sc. degree within Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Information and communication Technology, Engineering Physics or Engineering Mathematics. 

Additional requirements:

• C/C++ and GPU programming experience (CUDA, DX, Vulkan).
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• The ability to work both independently and in small teams. 

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following: 

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study. 
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience. 

Other assessment criteria:

• Experience working with Deep Learning and/or Computer Graphics
• Familiarity with Deep Learning and/or Computer Graphics research
• Interest in Computer Graphics and Neural Networks
• Experience with Code Generation

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. 

Terms of employment 

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

Welcome to apply!