PhD studentship on active nano-optomechanics, Eindhoven University of Technology

The coupling between mechanical motion and optical fields offers very exciting perspectives both for fundamental physics and for applications. The strong optical confinement in nanophotonic cavities makes them extremely sensitive to mechanical displacements at the nanometer scale. On the one hand, this can be used to mechanically control and steer light, on the other hand it allows controlling mechanical motion with light, down to the single-photon, single-phonon level. This projects aims at opening a new avenue in optomechanics, by exploring the coupling of nano-optomechanical systems to active emitters. We will investigate the spontaneous and stimulated emission of semiconductor nanostructures (quantum dots) in photonic crystal cavities where the cavity mode is coupled to mechanical displacement. This will lead to the demonstration of tri-partite quantum systems where charge excitations, phonons and photons are mutually coupled, and of nanolasers featuring unconventional dynamical properties.

Project description

The selected candidate will perform fundamental research at the interface between nanophotonics, quantum optics and optomechanics. He/she will conceive solid-state nanophotonic structures based on photonic crystals with embedded semiconductor quantum dots and will use them to experimentally investigate the radiative emission of the quantum dots in the presence of a mechanically-oscillating optical cavity. Specific goals include the mechanical control of spontaneous and stimulated emission rates of quantum dots – crucial for quantum information processing – and the investigation of the novel dynamics expected in nanolasers where the cavity field is coupled to mechanical motion, such that it can be potentially turned into a laser emitting phonons as well as photons The project will be carried out in close collaboration with the "Photonic forces" group at AMOLF (Amsterdam), and co-supervised by Prof. A. Fiore (TU/e) and Dr. Ewold Verhagen (AMOLF).

Job requirements

We welcome applications from candidates with a Master degree in physics with top marks and with a background and interest in optics or photonics. Candidates must prove a strong attitude towards experimental physics and the drive and capacity to tackle different aspects of a complex problem with large independence.

Conditions of employment

We offer a full time appointment for four years by Eindhoven University of Technology http://www.tue.nl/en/, a gross monthly salary of
€ 2174 (first year) to € 2779 (fourth year) with end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, in line with the Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities, an attractive package of fringe benefits, including end-of-year allowance, a personal development program for PhD students (PROOF program), and excellent sport facilities.

Information and application

Applications should include:

• A cover letter explaining your motivation and qualifications for the position
• A detailed CV
• A course list, including grades
• Names and contact information of two or more references

Screening of applications will start as soon as applications are received and will continue until the position has been filled. If you are interested in this position and would like to apply, please use the Following link "apply now".

Apply now

Two PhD positions on Process Mining in Logistics, Eindhoven University of Technology

The Data Science Centre Eindhoven (DSC/e) is TU/e’s response to the growing volume and importance of data and the need for data & process scientists (http://www.tue.nl/dsce/). Vanderlande is the global market leader in baggage handling systems for airports and sorting systems for parcel and postal services, and also a leading supplier of warehouse automation solutions (http://www.vanderlande.com/). Vanderlande recognizes the emerging trend of more data driven business models and addressed ‘big data’ a key topic on the technology roadmap. Therefore, under the umbrella of the “Data Science Impuls” program, the DSC/e and Vanderlande joined forces in a research project with the aim of bringing holistic fact-based process analytics to logistics processes and automated material handling solutions. This by providing automated insight in process flows, process performance and bottlenecks to obtain improvement information in an efficient way (historical as well as real time).  

Process Mining in Logistics:

The dynamics of logistics processes are notoriously difficult to analyze. Where classical process mining focuses on analyzing the processing of information associated to a specific unique case, logistics deals with physical objects that are grouped and processed together with other physical objects in one process at one or more physical locations, then distributed and later on re-aggregated with other physical objects in another process at other physical locations. As a consequence, processes reveal a multi-dimensional nature when looking at the performance of flows across networks of logistics.  In essence, logistics deals with numerous processes, cases, and objects that interact with each other in a multi-dimensional fashion making it impossible to pick a single appropriate viewpoint on the data for analysis and improvement.

The goal of the joint research project of DSC/e and Vanderlande is to lift process mining to this multi-dimensional space, and to allow analyzing logistics processes and systems from all relevant angles and viewpoints. By having thorough and fast insight into logistics and business processes, improvements can be found, predicted, and implemented at Vanderlande delivered logistics solutions. We aim to achieve this lift for the entire process mining spectrum

• from appropriate data logging and event data extraction techniques from logistics systems
• and appropriate conceptual modeling of logistics processes and systems
• via process discovery and process replay techniques for multi-dimensional event data
• for online and offline deviation detection and process comparison,
• to predictions of process outcomes and online recommendations based on event data.

Positions:The project has two PhD positions within the joint research project of DSC/e and Vanderlande. The two PhDs will join the Architecture of Information Systems group (AIS) at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and be supervised by Dirk Fahland and Wil van der Aalst (TU/e). In addition, the two PhDs will closely collaborate and spend significant time within Vanderlande. In this context, the two PhDs will focus on applying, extending, and developing process mining to the requirements elicited together with Vanderlande. In particular, the results obtained in the project shall both be implemented in software prototypes for validation and research as well as disseminated in trainings. The two PhDs are expected to closely collaborate on the project and solve the upcoming challenges jointly from different angles.
Vanderlande provides its expertise, engineering capabilities, and data for deriving accurate and realistic requirements for various kinds of logistics solutions and problems as well as the opportunity to quickly validate all ideas in a realistic setting. The Architecture of Information Systems group (AIS) of TU/e provides its long running expertise and experience across all challenges of process mining in general and artifact-centric process mining specifically.

Job requirements

Requirements:We are looking for candidates that meet the following requirements:

• a solid background in Computer Science, Data Science, or Mathematics (demonstrated by a relevant Master);
• ideal candidates have a strong background in process/data mining, logistics, and/or databases (in particular data modeling and query construction);
• have a strong interest in data science research;
• have the ability to realize research ideas in terms of prototype software, so software development skills are needed.
• are highly motivated, rigorous, and disciplined when developing algorithms and software according to high quality standards;
• good communication skills in English, both in speaking and in writing (candidates from non-Dutch or non-English speaking countries should be prepared to prove their English language skills);
• possess good communication capabilities and be an efficient team worker.

PhD students are expected to:

• perform scientific research in the domain described
• collaborate with other researchers in this project
• present results at (international) conferences
• publish results in scientific journals
• participate in activities of the group and department, at both sites
• assist in teaching undergraduate/graduate courses
• participate in doctoral training on relevant topics
• be willing to work at two locations (TU/e campus and at Vanderlande)
• provide training to internal specialists at Vanderlande

Conditions of employment

Conditions of employmentWe offer:

• A full time temporary appointment for a period of 4 years, with an intermediate evaluation after 9 months;
• A gross salary of € 2.173 per month in the first year increasing up to  € 2.778 in the fourth year;
• Support for your personal development and career planning including courses, summer schools, conference visits etc.;
• A broad package of fringe benefits (e.g. excellent technical infrastructure, child daycare and excellent sports facilities).

Information and application

More information

• For more information about this position contact Dr. Dirk Fahland (Assistant Professor), e-mail: d.fahland@tue.nl or by telephone: +31 40 247 4804
• For more information about the employment conditions contact drs. Charl Kuiters (HR advisor), e-mail: pzwin@tue.nl  or by telephone: +31 40 247 2321.

Application
 The application should consist of the following parts:

• Cover letter explaining your motivation and qualifications for the position (the letter should also show an understanding of process mining and the work done within AIS, see websites such as www.processmining.org and the book "Process Mining: Discovery, Conformance and Enhancement of Business Processes");
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae;
• List of courses taken at the Bachelor and Master level including marks;
• List of publications and software artefacts developed (if applicable);
• Names of at least three referees.

Please apply by using the 'Apply now' button on top of this page before January 31st, 2016.
Applications via e-mail will not be accepted.

Apply now

PhD student position in Mathematical statistics, Chalmers, Sweden

Looking for a doctoral student in mathematical statistics who will be working in a project concerning statistical methods for comparative gene prediction in bacteria. You will develop probabilistic models and computational tools and apply them to comparative analyses of DNA sequences in evolutionary related bacterial species. The focus will be on Hidden Markov models and Conditional Random Fields, which will be applied to the identification of signals, statistical patterns and evolutionary conserved regions in DNA sequences. For more detailed information go to the following web-page: http://www.chalmers.se/sv/personal/Sidor/marina-axelson-fisk.aspx#ContentTabBox3
Major responsibilities

As a PhD student you will be part of an international research environment while you expand your knowledge of the field and write your thesis. This gives opportunities for many inspiring conversations, a lot of autonomous work and some travel. You are expected to develop your own ideas and communicate scientific results orally as well as in written form. In addition, the position will normally include 20 % departmental work, mostly teaching duties.

Position summary

Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications

You must have a strong background in mathematical statistics. Previous biological knowledge is not necessary but is of course an advantage. You should have obtained a master's degree or a 4-year bachelor's degree, or expect to complete that degree by September 1, 2016. You should also include all relevant work such as bachelor's or master's thesis (or outline of a thesis under preparation) and articles (provide an English summary if necessary) that you have authored or co-authored.

The bachelor's level teaching is normally in Swedish, although the teaching at the master's and PhD levels is in English. Thus, good language skills are required.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.
Application procedureThe application should be marked with Ref 2010550 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

1. Application: (Please name the document: APPLICATION, Family name, reference number)
   − CV
   − Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
   − Two references that we can contact.
2. Personal letter/Qualifications: (Please name the document as: QUALIFICATIONS, family name, ref. number)
   − 1-3 pages where you introduce yourself present your qualifications and describe your future research plans.
   − Previous research fields and main research results.
   − Future goals and research focus. Are there any specific projects and research issues you are primarily interested in?
3. Other:
   − Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
   − Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 15 February 2016

For questions, please contact:Serik Sagitov, serik@chalmers.se, +46 (0)31 772 5351
Johan Tykesson, johant@chalmers.se, +46 (0)31 772 3514

For detailed questions about the project, please contact:
Marina Axelson-Fisk, marina.axelson-fisk@chalmers.se, +46 (0)31 772 4996

PhD student position in Chemistry, Sweden

The advertised position involves the design and characterization of novel platforms for photochromic control of molecular functions. Photochromic molecules can be isomerized between two forms using light. Upon isomerization, a large number of molecular properties change dramatically, such as the structure, charge distribution, refractive index, excitation energies, and redox properties. In this project, the main objective will be to use the photochromic activity for the "on-off" switching of energy- and electron transfer reactions. The systems that will be studied aim at the realization of photoswitched DNA-based opto-fibers, photochromic white-light generation and color tuning, molecular logic devices (memories, logic gates etc.), and photonic control of supramolecular complex-formation.

The techniques that will be used are mainly UV/vis absorption and emission spectroscopy in the steady-state and the time-resolved regimes.

Position summaryFull-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications

A Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Physics, or an equivalent education. Experience from UV/vis absorption and emission spectroscopy in the steady-state and the time-resolved regimes are meritorious, as is a solid background in physical chemistry or previous experience from working with photochromic molecules. You are expected to work relatively independently, have the ability to plan and organize your work, and be able to communicate your scientific results, both orally and in writing, in English.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.
Application procedureThe application should be marked with Ref 20150565 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

1. Application: (Please name the document: APPLICATION, Family name, reference number)
   − CV
   − Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
   − Two references that we can contact.
2. Personal letter/Qualifications: (Please name the document as: QUALIFICATIONS, family name, ref. number)
   − 1-3 pages where you introduce yourself present your qualifications and describe your future research plans.
   − Previous research fields and main research results.
   − Future goals and research focus. Are there any specific projects and research issues you are primarily interested in?
3. Other:
   − Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
   − Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 4 February 2016

For questions, please contact:Professor Joakim Andréasson,
Division of Chemistry and Biochemistry,
a-son@chalmers.se,
+46 707 70 50 63

Open PhD Position in Data Mining, data analytics group at the University of Mannheim, Germany

The data analytics group at the University of Mannheim, Germany, invites applications for the following open position:

RESEARCH ASSISTANT / PHD STUDENT IN DATA MINING (TV-L 13).

The group's research focuses on systems and methods for analyzing and mining large datasets as well as their applications in practice. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to conduct research in the areas of pattern mining and text mining. The candidate should have a strong background in one or several of the following areas:

• Data mining and machine learning
• Information extraction
• Natural language processing

The position is payed according to German regulations (TV-L 13, ~3300€ before tax) for an initial duration of two years (extension is possible).

The data analytics group is a member of the Data and Web Science group at the University of Mannheim; more information can be found at:

http://dws.informatik.uni-mannheim.de/~rgemulla
http://dws.informatik.uni-mannheim.de

Please contact Rainer Gemulla for informal enquiries.

Applications should contain a CV, university transcripts, a copy of the master thesis (or equivalent) as well as a list of personal references. All complete applications received until January 30, 2016 will receive full consideration. Applications can be sent via e-mail to Martina Hey or via postal mail to Prof. Dr. Rainer Gemulla / Universität Mannheim / 68161 Mannheim / Germany. Please be aware that breach of confidentiality and unauthorized access by a third party cannot be excluded for a communication without encryption.

The University of Mannheim seeks to increase the proportion of women in research and teaching. Preference will be given to suitably qualified women or persons with disabilities, all other considerations being equal.

Deadline : January 30, 2016

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