PhD position – Data-driven optimization for sustainable network design

The InnoRenew CoE is seeking highly motivated and qualified applicants for a PhD researcher position (Assistant Researcher) to work in the field of computer science and optimization. The successful candidate will be part of InnoRenew CoE’s ICT research group (Izola, Slovenia) and as a doctoral student will enrol in the Computer Science doctoral program at the University of Primorska (Koper, Slovenia).

Using networks to model real-world problems is a powerful tool, as they provide an efficient abstraction that can be used to analyse the structure of the task at hand. Ranging from sensor networks to supply chains, there is an underlying complex network for a wide array of different everyday applications. Sustainability plays an important role in the design of these networks when considering various optimisation questions such as energy minimisation or the reuse of waste materials. The objectives and constraints of these optimisation problems are generally strongly influenced by a large amount of available measured data.

 

Tasks and Goals

The focus of the research is to analyse the underlying structure of selected real-world problems and design efficient network representations for them. The above goal is intended to be achieved by:

• Collecting and studying available data related to the problems, identifying crucial underlying information;
• Using the extracted information, efficient solution methods should be developed for problems arising in these networks. Mathematical programming and metaheuristic approaches can both be used for this purpose;
• Showing the efficiency of the developed tools and methods by implementing simulation environments.
  The methods and tools developed above will be adapted for real-world data in connection with interdisciplinary projects. The successful candidate will also contribute to applications for grant-funded research projects and publish their research in high-level international journals and prestigious conferences in the field.

 

Required qualifications

• Master’s degree in computer science, information technology, mathematics, or related area
• Strong command of at least one major high-level programming language (e.g. C++, Java, Python)
• Solid background in algorithm design and data structures
• High motivation to carry out interdisciplinary research projects
• Ability to solve complex problems with the development of methodical and analytical approaches
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English
• Ability to interact with industry and other researchers

 

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in implementing graph algorithms
• Strong operations research background
• Knowledge of optimization and modelling software
• Participation in applied research projects (industrial or grant-funded)
• Ability to formulate and communicate new research ideas and prepare research proposals

 

What we offer

The InnoRenew CoE was established based on a flagship project funded by the European Commission and the Republic of Slovenia.

• 1-year contract with option for renewal (recommended duration for doctoral studies is four years)
• Competitive salary with possible performance-based raises
• Opportunity to work on a prestigious H2020 project

How to apply

Interested applicants should send:

• Curriculum vitae
• Motivation letter for this position
• Summary of previous research experience (master’s thesis, for example)
• Certified copy of master´s degree certificate and official transcript of records, and their translations, if the originals are not in English.
  All materials should be in English and submitted in PDF format.

Please send application via e-mail to: coe@innorenew.eu

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For further information about the research topic please contact Dr. Miklós Krész (miklos.kresz@innorenew.eu).

InnoRenew CoE’s employment opportunities, policies, activities, services, and facilities do not exclude any person on the basis of race, color, age, sex, gender, religion, national origin, or disability. InnoRenew CoE complies with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); therefore, applicants’ personal data will only be shared with InnoRenew CoE staff directly involved in the selection and recruitment of personnel and never with third parties. By submitting an application, you agree that the data you provide therein will be reviewed and processed by the relevant InnoRenew CoE staff.

The InnoRenew CoE reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

Apply now