Doctoral Candidate in AI and Optimization

University of Zurich

Switzerland

Department of Mathematical Modeling and Machine Learning

Doctoral Candidate in AI and Optimization 80 %

Start of employment 1st of March 2026 or by agreement, temporary

The Department of Mathematical Modeling and Machine Learning (DM3L) at University of Zurich is seeking applications for a Doctoral Candidate in AI and Optimization.

We offer an exciting and stimulating environment to study and work in.

Your responsibilities

The successful candidate will work on a project in the AI and Optimization Lab with Prof. Anastasia Koloskova. The emphasis of the doctoral project is on the intersection of theory and practice in areas such as distributed optimization, federated learning, machine learning, privacy, or unlearning.

Your profile

We are looking for candidates with an interest in performing innovative research, strong motivation, and an interest in optimization, federated learning, machine learning, privacy, or unlearning. An ideal candidate will have:

an excellent degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Applied Mathematics or a related field (e.g. Electrical Engineering)
strong mathematical understanding
experience in programming, preferably in Python
prior experience in related topics, such as machine learning, optimization, or privacy

Furthermore, the candidate should be fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Information on your application

Please submit your complete application incuding:

motivation letter
curriculum vitae
school and university score records
contact details of at least two referees

via the link below. The deadline for applications is 31st of December 2025 and the desired starting date is 1st of March 2026 or by agreement, temporary. Selection will start immediately, so early submissions are encouraged.

What we offer

Work-Life Balance

Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH

Learning and Development

Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich

Food

Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution

Healthcare

Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
Free seasonal flu vaccinations
Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower

Discounts

Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
Special conditions on hotel reservations

Conditions of Employment

Policies of the UZH
Most UZH staff are employed according to public law

International Services

Support for people from outside Switzerland

Campuses

Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg

Location

Department of Mathematical Modeling and Machine Learning

Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

Further information

Questions about the job

Prof. Anastasia Koloskova Professor

Thank you for your message. We will get back to you shortly.

Questions about the application procedure

Nicole Trolese HR Manager

Thank you for your message. We will get back to you shortly.

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!

In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com

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