We are looking for a PostDoc who will conduct research at the intersection of machine learning (ML) and statistics. The primary focus will be on developing algorithmic improvements in causal inference and reinforcement learning through the integration of machine learning and statistical methods, applying these innovations in a health context.

About the Company

The position is part of two projects that serve as application domains. The first is the ten-year gravitation grant 'Stress in Action', funded by NWO (Dutch National Science Foundation), which aims to transition stress research from the lab to everyday life. The methodological innovations will target stress-related data applications, such as wearables and ecological momentary assessments. The second project, funded by ZonMW, is MINMED, which seeks to uncover causal effects of interventions in elderly care using observational data.

A variety of academic partners are involved, including Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Erasmus MC, University of Twente, University of Groningen, UMC Groningen, and Utrecht University.

The role is situated within the Quantitative Data Analytics (QDA) group at VU, collaborating closely with Amsterdam UMC, Erasmus MC, and the University of Groningen. The QDA group focuses on both fundamental and application-driven research in ML.

Responsibilities

The PostDoc position entails:

• Conducting research in machine learning and publishing findings in leading AI and ML conferences.
• Engaging with the QDA group at VU, the Biostatistics group at Erasmus MC, and Laura Bringmann's intensive longitudinal data lab at the University of Groningen.
• Contributing to the Stress in Action and MINMED projects, collaborating with various partners and stakeholders.
• Participating in teaching activities and potentially supervising Bachelor and Master students (20% of the time).

Requirements

Candidates should possess:

• A PhD in a relevant field related to machine learning and/or statistics.
• Prior experience in machine learning, ideally with applications in health, evidenced by relevant publications.
• A strong programming background, particularly in PyTorch and/or TensorFlow.
• Proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.

As a university, we advocate for equal opportunities, recognizing the value of diversity in enhancing the quality of our teaching, research, and service. We encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, even if they do not meet all requirements.

What We Offer

We provide a challenging position within a socially responsible organization. The salary is in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel, starting at €3,706.00 per month in the first year, increasing to €5,760.00 per month by the fourth year, based on full-time employment. The position is classified as scale 10 and is available for 1 FTE. The initial appointment is for three years at VU Amsterdam, including a two-month probation period.

Benefits

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers excellent fringe benefits and various initiatives to promote a healthy work/life balance, including:

• Up to 41 days of annual leave based on full-time employment.
• 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Discounts on theater performances and courses at the Griffioen Cultural Center.
• Access to a wide range of sports facilities at a modest charge.
• Contributions towards commuting expenses.

About Us

Computer Science Department

The Department comprises approximately 220 staff members, including 100 PhD students. Our research and teaching staff are essential to the department's functioning, providing foundational education that shapes our students' futures. We currently offer programs in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Information Sciences (BSc and MSc), Bioinformatics, and Systems Biology (MSc), with around 1,000 new students each year.

The department encourages interdisciplinary research and expects the successful candidate to collaborate with colleagues across various fields within Computer Science and with other institutes. A significant portion of interdisciplinary research is embedded in the Network Institute of Vrije Universiteit, encompassing disciplines such as Social Sciences, Humanities, and Economics. The department also actively participates in Amsterdam Data Science, a collaboration of over 600 data science researchers from various institutions in Amsterdam, and AMSec, the Amsterdam security collaborative center.

Faculty of Science

Working at the Faculty of Science involves collaboration with students, lecturers, and researchers who are dedicated to their fields while maintaining a broad perspective. We pride ourselves on fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, where we collectively address social challenges with energy and a pragmatic approach. Our education and research span a wide range of scientific disciplines, from molecules to humanity, addressing complex societal issues for a sustainable, healthy, and equitable future.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is committed to values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts who think freely and focus on diversity, significance, and humanity to develop sustainable solutions with social impact. Together, we create a safe and respectful working and learning environment that inspires education and research.

Diversity

Diversity is the cornerstone of VU Amsterdam. We strive to be accessible and inclusive, valuing diversity in disciplines, cultures, ideas, nationalities, beliefs, preferences, and worldviews. We believe that trust, respect, and interest in differences foster innovation and understanding.

We are continuously seeking individuals whose backgrounds and experiences enhance the diversity of the VU community.

About The Department

The VU Department of Computer Science has approximately 250 members, including 70 tenured staff members.

Interested?

If you are interested in this position, please apply via the application button and upload your CV and cover letter by September 27. Applications submitted via email will not be considered. We appreciate your understanding that unsolicited acquisition in response to this advertisement is not welcome.