PhD Position Discrete Mathematics and Optimization: Mathematical Phylogenetics

During this project, you will work on fundamental graph-theoretic and algorithmic problems in mathematical phylogenetics.

PhD position overview

The Discrete Mathematics and Optimization group within the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics at TU Delft is offering a full-time PhD position in the area of mathematical phylogenetics.

Phylogenetic networks are directed acyclic graphs often used to represent the evolutionary history of species. They are similar to the frequently seen “tree of life” diagrams, but also allow for non-vertical evolutionary events called reticulation events, which arise from processes such as hybridization, horizontal gene transfer, and recombination. Creating such networks from DNA sequences requires techniques from graph theory, theoretical computer science (algorithms), and statistics. During this project, you will develop new methods to construct phylogenetic networks and generalize mathematical frameworks of phylogenetic network classes to tackle related problems in the field.

The PhD will be supervised by Yukihiro Murakami. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with postdocs, PhD candidates, and other faculty members of the research group, as well as various external collaborators of Yukihiro Murakami.

Besides carrying out mathematical research and preparing scientific publications, you will be expected to actively participate in seminars and discussions within the department, and to present your work at both national and international conferences and workshops. You will also carry out minor teaching tasks (at most 15% of your time) in English (or possibly Dutch if you are Dutch-speaking). Communication will be in English. If desired, you can take Dutch language courses offered by the TU Delft Language Center.

Job requirements

• Strong Background: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Computer Science or a closely related subject (such as Operations Research), with a solid foundation in graphs, networks, and algorithms. Biological knowledge is a plus, but not necessary.
• Mathematical Maturity: Ability to write mathematical proofs and formal texts as evidenced by a master's thesis report or similar documents.
• Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• Communication: You are able to communicate your ideas clearly and work effectively with a diverse set of researchers.

About the faculty and environment

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. At the same time, the faculty develops the chips and sensors of the future and lays foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment, including AI. The faculty also pushes 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. 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.