Doctoral student in theoretical computer science and/or combinatorial optimization

Description of the workplace

The PhD student will be working in 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. 

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!

Being a doctoral student 

As a doctoral student, you are both admitted as a student and employed at Lund University. 

As a doctoral student, you will be trained in a scientific approach. In short, you will be trained to think critically and analytically, to solve problems independently using the right methods, and to develop an awareness of research ethics. In addition, you will have the opportunity to work on projects, to develop your leadership and pedagogical skills. Throughout your studies, you will be guided by supervisors. Doctoral studies end with a thesis and a doctoral degree.

More about being a doctoral student at LTH on lth.se.

Subject description

With this call, we are mainly looking for a mathematically gifted PhD student with excellent programming skills to continue our ground-breaking work on certifying algorithms, funded by the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program (WASP). There is some flexibility as to what kind of research PhD students in the group pursue, though, and all candidates 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

You will primarily devote yourself to your doctoral programme, which includes participation in research projects as well as third cycle courses, seminars and conferences. The main tasks and responsibilities consist of conducting mathematical research and/or algorithm design and development. The work duties also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%), in which case the position is prolonged accordingly.

Qualifications 

To be eligible for admission and employment as a doctoral student, you must fulfil the requirements below.

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.

Applicants meet the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in computer science if they have:

• at least 60 second-cycle credits at an advanced level with relevance for the research topic, or 
• an MSc in Engineering in Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Engineering Physics or Engineering Mathematics.

Additional requirements

In order to complete the doctoral programme in question, the following are also required: 

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• A strong background in mathematics and computer science, as demonstrated by excellent grades in relevant courses, or by results at the Olympiads of Mathematics or Informatics, or by previous research projects.
• Excellent problem solving skills and creativity.
• Excellent programming skills for candidates mainly interested in applied research.
• Ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Good ability to cooperate.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. 

More about working at Lund University on lu.se.

About the employment 

The employment is a fixed-term employment at full time. The anticipated starting date is in August-September 2026 or according to agreement. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. In the case of teaching and other departmental duties, the employment is extended accordingly. Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

More about terms of employment for doctoral students on Lund University’s Staffpages. 

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include: 

1. Curriculum vitae. 
2. Brief statement as to why the applicant wishes to conduct doctoral studies, including a description of the applicant's qualifications and interests. 
3. Diploma and transcripts of records (BSc and MSc). These must confirm that you meet the general and specific admission requirements for the doctoral programme.
4. If applicable, copies of the applicant's MSc thesis (or possibly BSc thesis) and any research publications. 
5. Names and addresses for three references who might be contacted for reference letters later in the recruitment process. 

We welcome your application.