Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
Institute:
Delft University of Technology
Country:
Netherlands
Research Field:
Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, Python
Posted Date:
NA
Deadline:
May 31, 2026
Offer Period:
4 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
PhD Position in Probabilistic Inference in Complex Networks
Description:
- Complex systems are often modeled with networks, structures where the main units of information are pairs or groups of nodes connected by edges. As network data becomes increasingly available across scientific domains, there is a need for principled models to analyze this specific structured data. How can we perform inference tasks to learn hidden patterns, like community structure or hidden hierarchies? How can we incorporate domain knowledge to design interpretable models for their governing mechanisms? How can we make these model computationally efficient and capable of scaling to large dataset sizes?
- Scientific challenges for this exciting PhD project include: develop principled probabilistic generative models for networks; analyze real network data from different application domains; design efficient algorithmic implementations of the theoretical models.
- You will be supervised by Dr. Caterina De Bacco from the Network Architecture and Services Group.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- MSc in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics or related disciplines with a strong background in mathematical modeling, algorithms and probabilistic modeling
- Good programming skills in Python/C/C++
- Good oral and very good written skills in English
- Enjoys working in an international and inter-disciplinary research group
Preferred Qualification:
Not Available
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Benefits:
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
- As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
- The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- CV
- Motivational letter (1 page)
- Degree transcripts
- You can address your application to Dr. Caterina De Bacco.
How to apply:
- Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 31 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
- The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.
TU Delft
- Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
- At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
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You may also be interested in the following PhD positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.