Postdoctor in combinatorial optimization and/or theoretical computer science

Description of the workplace

We are looking for an outstanding junior researcher with an innovative mindset and intellectual curiosity to strengthen and complement the research profile of the Mathematical Insights into Algorithms for Optimization (MIAO) group at the Department of Computer Science at Lund University. The research group, which is headed by Jakob Nordström, is also active at the University of Copenhagen. 

Lund University is located in the Öresund region, which offers one of the strongest and most exciting research environments for foundations of computer science in Europe. We cooperate not only with the University of Copenhagen, where the Basic Algorithms Research Copenhagen (BARC) centre is located, but also with the IT University of Copenhagen (ITU) and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU).

Subject description

The MIAO research group has a unique profile in that we are doing cutting-edge research both on the mathematical foundations of efficient computation and on state-of-the-art practical algorithms for real-world problems. This creates a very special environment, where we do not only conduct in-depth research on different theoretical and applied topics, but where different lines of research cross-fertilize each other and unexpected and exciting synergies often arise. Much of the activities of the group revolve around powerful algorithmic paradigms such as, e.g., Boolean satisfiability (SAT) solving, Gröbner basis computations, integer linear programming, and constraint programming. This leads to classical questions in computational complexity theory—though often with new, fascinating twists—but also involves work on devising clever algorithms that can exploit the power of such paradigms in practice.

Our most recent new line of research is on how to verify the correctness of state-of-the-art algorithms for combinatorial optimization. Such algorithms are often highly complex, and even mature commercial solvers are known to sometimes produce wrong results. Our work on designing a new generation of certifying combinatorial solvers, which output not only a solution but also a machine-verifiable mathematical proof that this solution is correct, has already led to several prestigious international awards, but many more exciting problems are still waiting to be solved!

With this call, we are mainly looking for a researcher with strong mathematical background combined with excellent algorithmic thinking and programming skills to further expand our world-leading work on certifying algorithms for combinatorial optimization. However, there is a lot of flexibility regarding the research agenda, and all candidates doing research in the area are welcome, both those who want to go deep into either theory or practice and those who are inspired by the challenge of bridging the gap between the two.

Work duties

The main duties of the postdoctoral research is to conduct research. Teaching of advanced courses is encouraged but not required. Travel is a part of the work duties and we are also receiving visitors on a regular basis. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development. The postdoc is expected to collaborate with PhD students in the group and can be asked to assist with supervising degree projects.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a postdoctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD degree, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within a subject area relevant for the position. The certificate proving that the qualification requirement is met must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Strong background and passionate interest in computer science and mathematics.
• Problem solving skills and creativity.
• Good ability to collaborate.
• Published papers in top conferences and/or journals in the field, such as AAAI, IJCAI, SAT, CP, or similar for more applied candidates, and STOC, FOCS, SODA, CCC, ICALP, or similar for more theoretical candidates.

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

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.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University recruitment system. The application should be written in English and should include:

• Curriculum vitae.
• Diplomas and transcripts of records (MSc/BSc and PhD degree or equivalent).
• List of publications including links to the applicant's pages at Google Scholar and DBLP.
• Brief research statement with an overview of research so far and future research goals and interests, including a short description of 3 selected papers.
• Copies of the above 3 selected papers.
• Contact information for three references who might be contacted later in the recruitment process.

Welcome to apply.