Research positions (PhD and postdocs) in physics-informed machine learning, magnetic resonance fingerprinting, and materials science

We are seeking highly motivated and talented researchers to join our interdisciplinary team and work on physics-informed machine learning (PIML). Multiple positions are open for projects aimed at bridging the gap between physics-based modeling and data-driven techniques, with a specific focus on machine learning and probabilistic methods for radiological diagnostics, multiscale modeling, and microstructure modeling. Potential research topics include:

• Developing general physics-informed machine learning (PIML) methods that integrate fundamental physical models into advanced deep neural network architectures and Gaussian process models in collaboration with various experts from USA and Europe.

• Advancing physics-guided neural networks, surrogate models, and other PIML methods for materials design. These methods will have applications in a joint EU project in partnership with Finnish research institute VTT, KTH, and TU-Wien for optimizing material properties.

• Advancing PIML, stochastic optimization methods, and data-driven control methods for monitoring and control systems of mining processes (e.g., in gold mines) in collaboration with industrial partners.

• Developing state-of-the-art data-driven and ML methods for magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) in a joint Research Council of Finland project with the University of Oulu and the University of Eastern Finland.

The research projects are done in close collaboration with the Finnish Center for Artificial Intelligence (FCAI) and European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS).

Research group

The positions are available in the growing Sensor Informatics and Medical Technology (Sensori-informatiikka ja lääketieteellinen tekniikka) research group. We aim to carry out original high-quality research and continuously publish in top journals and conferences of the field. We have an extensive international collaboration network, which will facilitate the mobility of our researchers to leading research groups abroad, and vice versa. Our group is located at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation at Aalto University in Espoo. It is also affiliated with the Finnish Center for Artificial Intelligence (FCAI) and with Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS).

Number of positions: 2-3 (or more)

Supervisor: Prof. Simo Särkkä (simo.sarkka@aalto.fi)

Ready to apply?

Please submit your application through our recruiting system using "Apply now!" link below. Please be prepared to add the following attachments:

• Motivation letter describing why you want to work with us (e.g., which publications you liked)

• CV (please highlight any open source, publications, or other projects that are relevant)

• Transcripts of studies

• Recommendation letter(s) if you have any

Application period is open until 15 October, 2023, but we will start reviewing candidates immediately. Applications will be considered until the position(s) are filled.

More information

If you wish to hear more about the position, please contact Prof. Simo Särkkä (https://users.aalto.fi/~ssarkka/), email: simo.sarkka@aalto.fi. Regarding the application process and practical arrangements, please contact HR partner Camilla Hanganpää (camilla.hanganpaa@aalto.fi).

Requirements:

• For doctoral candidates (PhD students): MSc. in physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, computer science, or related field

• For postdocs: PhD (or equivalent) in physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, computer science, or related field

• Knowledge in machine learning, deep learning, statistical inference, Bayesian filtering and smoothing, optimization and control, or physics

• Proficient in programming languages used in scientific computing, such as, Python, Matlab, or Julia

• Experience or will to learn ML frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or JAX.

• Fluency in English

• Academic publication and presentation skills are appreciated

As a person, we hope that you are:

• An enthusiastic technical writer

• Proactive

• Comfortable in working in multi-disciplinary and international teams

• Eager to learn

• A team player

Salary information

The expected starting salary for a doctoral candidate is approximately 2700 € per month, and the salary will increase with responsibilities and performance over time. The contract for a doctoral candidate is made for 4 years. In addition to the salary, the contract includes occupational health benefits, and Finland has a comprehensive social security system.

The approximate starting salary for a postdoc is 3900 € per month with the same benefits. Postdocs typically receive contracts for 2+1 years. Even a research fellow position is possible (salary will be determined according to experience).

The annual total workload of teaching staff at Aalto University is 1 612 hours. The position is located at the Aalto University Otaniemi campus which can be easily reached by public transportation.