Job Offerings

The Algorithmic Decision Making and Society group at the Hasso-Plattner-Institute (HPI) in Potsdam, Germany invites applications for

3 Fully-Funded PhD Students

We seek motivated candidates interested in developing fair and efficient algorithmic decision making systems for problems involving different stakeholders with conflicting objectives. Specific areas of interest include:

• Computational social choice (How can we aggregate conflicting preferences over alternatives into a compromise solution that fairly reflects everyone's opinion? How can we use abstract-level theoretical knowledge to develop practically usable systems for complex real-world preference aggregation problems?)

• Fairness & transparency in AI selection systems (How can we find easy-to-understand explanations for decisions made by AI selection systems, such as classification and clustering tools? How can we formally check and guarantee that such systems make fair decisions?)

• AI for public health (How can we allocate scarce (medical) resources such as medication and screening tools effectively? How can we best integrate predictions in these allocation algorithms?) 

In all three areas, the ultimate research goal is to contribute to the development and deployment of systems with a positive societal impact grounded in rigorous theoretical research incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives. 

Environment 

• Work in a newly established, ambitious research group following a collaborative, supportive, and communication-forward approach. 

• The Hasso-Plattner-Institute at the University of Potsdam is one of Germany's top-ranked computer science institutes with strong connections to international research institutions and industry partners. The group is located at the modern Campus Griebnitzsee, at the border to Berlin. 

Conditions

• Freedom and support to develop an individual research agenda. 

• Generous travel funding for conferences and research visits. 

• Two positions are research-only scholarships, while the third is a WiMi-contract that includes teaching responsibilities. All positions are full-time.

• The starting date is highly flexible, with September 1, 2024 being the earliest starting date.

Requirements

• An excellent degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field (or close to completion).

• Enthusiasm for analytical problem-solving, passion for research, and motivation to complete a PhD in ~4 years.

• Proficiency in German is not required.

Please send applications via email to jobs@niclas-boehmer.com by July 12, 2024, including:

• Your CV and transcripts of records,

• Your most recent thesis, 

• 1-3 reference letters or contact details for 1-3 referees (e.g., your thesis adviser), 

• A brief, informal description of your areas of interest, and

• Any additional information you deem relevant.

Informal announcements of applications are appreciated, and applications will be kept open until all positions are filled. Women and members of traditionally underrepresented minority groups are particularly encouraged to apply. If you have any questions or are unsure whether you want to apply, please don’t hesitate to reach out!