PhD Position in Network Automation

Are you passionate about the future of network automation control and the integration of machine learning into networking systems? We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position within the MultiScale Networked Systems (MNS) research group, focusing on the convergence of automation, in-network machine learning, and control-theoretic approaches for next-generation networks.

In this role, you will explore advanced methodologies to automate network control and orchestration, leveraging machine learning techniques to optimize real-time data processing directly within the network fabric. You will also investigate control-theoretic models to achieve formally robust and reliable network management. This research will be integral to enhancing the flexibility, reliability, and performance of future networks, including 6G systems.

You will be embedded in the MNS group. The group focuses its research on the fundamental architectural problems that arise from the interconnection of systems and of data flows. We look at the emerging architectures that can support the operations of the future Internet. More information can be found here.

What are you going to do?

Tasks and responsibilities:

• Develop innovative approaches for network automation using software-defined and programmable networking technologies.
• Design and implement machine learning algorithms specifically for in-network processing, enabling real-time adaptation to network conditions.
• Apply control-theoretic principles to model and optimize network behavior, focusing on end-to-end robustness and reliability.
• Work with state-of-the-art testbeds and participate in collaborative research efforts, including national and international projects.
• Publish and present work regularly at international conferences, workshops, and journals.
• Assist in teaching activities (labs) and in supervising bachelor and master students.
• Complete and defend your PhD thesis.

What do you have to offer?

Your experience and profile:

• A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Network Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or C/C++ and familiarity with networking technologies like SDN, NFV, P4, or eBPF.
• Knowledge of networking protocols, optimization, machine learning algorithms, and basic control theoretic concepts.
• An interest in both theoretical and applied research in next-generation networks.
• Proficiency in English and excellent communication skills.
• Commitment to maintaining an inclusive, collaborative, diverse, supportive work environment.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €2,872 to €3,670 (scale P). UvA additionally offers an extensive package of secondary benefits, including 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. The UFO profile Promovendus is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• Multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• A complete educational program for PhD students;
• Multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• Multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• Partly paid parental leave;
• The possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• A pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• The possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
• Help with housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.

About us

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 42,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science (FNWI) has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.

The MultiScale Networked Systems (MNS) group is part of the Informatics Institute at the University of Amsterdam. The group focusses its research on multiscale systems e.g. cloud systems or clusters that define themselves by their dynamic size and scale, and on the network connecting them. The MNS group explores the emerging architectures that can support emerging applications across the future internet.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

• E: Dr. Chrysa Papagianni, Assistant Professor, c.papagianni@uva.nl, T: +31 628152140
• E: Dr. Marios Avgeris, Assistant Professor, m.avgeris@uva.nl, T: +31 643594226

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 25 November 2024.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file):

• a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
• a letter of motivation;
• a list of publications;
• Names, affiliations, and email addresses of three academic referees who can provide details about your academic profile in relation to this position (please do not include any reference letters in your application).

Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above.

You can use the CV field to upload your resume as a separate pdf document. Use the Cover Letter field to upload the other requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file.

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered. Please don’t send any applications by email.

We will invite potential candidates for interviews soon after the expiration of the vacancy.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

If you encounter Error GBB451/ GBC451, please try using a VPN connection when outside of the European Union. Please reach out directly to our HR Department directly. They will gladly help you continue your application.

No agencies please.