PhD Candidate on TATTOOS: paTtern formATion Trough biO-inspired cOmputer viSion

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) are looking for a:

PhD Candidate on TATTOOS: paTtern formATion Trough biO-inspired cOmputer viSion

The Imaging and Bioinformatics group at LIACS, Leiden University in collaboration with Naturalis Biodiversity Center (Naturalis) and the Mathematics Department of Vrije Universiteit (VU) in Amsterdam, are seeking a highly motivated researcher to join our cutting-edge project on AI models development for individual identification of maculated animals with biologically guided generative deep neural networks. The candidate will collaborate with Dr. Rita Pucci (LIACS), Prof. Fons Verbeek (LIACS) and Prof. Daniele Avitabile (VU).

This project aims to create in a deep neural network with a strong prior knowledge of pattern formation systems on animals’ skin, with the aim of identifying individuals based on their maculation. You will work in a vibrant interdisciplinary environment collaborating closely with a team of experts in computer vision, and imaging at LIACS, in mathematical mechanistic models, at VU, and with biologists expert in pattern formation on animals’ skin, at Naturalis.

We are looking for an independent, motivated, and creative researcher with a strong background in deep learning architectures, and image analysis and interested in working on interdisciplinary project deeply rooted in biology, and with a specific focus on biodiversity monitoring. During the PhD period, in addition to the scientific knowledge required for the project, the candidate will have the opportunity to interact, and work in different fields of research, within a dynamic interdisciplinary environment.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct original and novel research in the field of deep learning architectures;
• Publish and present scientific articles at international journals, conferences, and workshops;
• Collaborate with researchers of Naturalis and other universities in the Netherlands;
• Assist in teaching bachelor’s and master’s courses;

Selection Criteria
We are looking for a candidate that meets the following criteria:

• MSc degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field;
• Experience in deep learning architectures in the field of computer vision and with training, validating and inference processes in machine learning;
• Familiarity with generative AI;
• Curious about mathematics and biology;
• Excellent programming skills, particularly in Python;
• Self-propelled and creative;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; Dutch proficiency or willingness to learn is a plus;
• Strong ability to work on multiple tasks efficiently and meet deadlines in a high-pressure environment;

Research at LIACS
The Leiden Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. Our people are driven by curiosity to expand fundamental knowledge and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is diverse, ranging from artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 1,300 staff and almost 4,000 students. We are located at the heart of one of Europe’s biggest bio-science parks, where university and business life come together.

The Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) is the Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Institute of the Faculty of Science of Leiden University. We offer courses at the Bachelor and Master of Science level in the core areas of Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and Data Science, and in the interdisciplinary areas of Business, Creative Intelligence, and Bioinformatics. We are a highly international place to do research, committed to excellence in a supportive and inclusive environment. We value fun, inclusivity, openness, and teamwork, ensuring that excellence and enjoyment go hand in hand. At LIACS, we balance teaching and research, offering a clear and inviting career path for young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow.

Terms and conditions

We offer a full-time 1-year term position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary ranges from € 2.901,- to € 3.707,- gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

D&I statement

Diversity and inclusion are core values of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

Information

Enquiries can be made to Dr. Rita Pucci, r.pucci@liacs.leidenuniv.nl. If you have any questions regarding the procedure, you can send an email to: jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.