Doctoral Student in Computer Science with a Focus on Tractable Quantum Machine Learning
Ref no: ORU 2.1.1-07577/2025
Örebro University and the School of Science and Technology are offering a doctoral student position in Computer Science. The position is expected to conclude with a doctoral degree (PhD. in Computer Science).
Start date: Spring 2026.
Project Description
This PhD project explores the foundations of tractable probabilistic models, i.e. machine learning models that support efficient and exact reasoning, and investigates their emerging connection to quantum machine learning. The overarching goal is to understand how principles that make classical models tractable, such as structured computation and controlled expressivity, can be extended or reinterpreted in a quantum information theoretic setting. By studying this intersection, the project aims to uncover unifying concepts that link classical and quantum approaches to efficient inference, paving the way for new models that remain both expressive and computationally well-behaved.
The Programme and the Doctoral Studentship
The doctoral programme consists of courses and an independent research project that culminates in a doctoral thesis. The programme concludes with a doctoral degree and comprises 240 ECTS credits, which corresponds to four years of full-time study.
Our ambition is to offer stimulating and meaningful doctoral studies. Doctoral students at Örebro University receive a clear introduction to the doctoral programme, actively participate in scientific seminars, and benefit from opportunities for networking and career development.
The place on the programme is linked to a full-time doctoral studentship for the duration of the study programme. More information on doctoral studentships, part-time studies, and part-time doctoral studentships can be found in the Regulations Handbook. The initial salary for a doctoral studentship is SEK 32,300 a month.
The doctoral studentship is a tailored form of employment for students enrolled on a doctoral programme. It guarantees employment for the duration of the doctoral programme (given that the studies progress).
Entry Requirements and Selection
For admission to doctoral studies, applicants are required to meet both general entry requirements and specific entry requirements. In addition, applicants must be considered in other respects to have the ability required to benefit from the programme. For a full account of the entry requirements, please refer to the admissions regulations as well as to Annex 2 to the general syllabus for computer science.
Applicants meet the general entry requirements if they
- have been awarded a second-cycle qualification,
- have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second-cycle, or
- have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
Applicants meet the specific entry requirements for research studies in computer science if they have been awarded a Degree of Master of Science in Engineering or a one-year Master’s degree from a programme within the subject field or related subjects, or if he or she has received a passing grade of at least 120 credits, including an independent project on the second cycle, in a main field of study of relevance to the computer science field. A person who has acquired substantially corresponding knowledge, in Sweden or abroad, also meets the specific entry requirements.
The successful candidate should demonstrate strong and independent problem-solving, and critical analysis abilities. Furthermore, the candidate should have good cooperative and communication skills. Fluent spoken and written command of English is essential, while knowledge of Swedish is not necessary.
Furthermore, the ideal candidate will have a strong background in probabilistic AI with solid foundations in linear algebra and machine learning. Experience with quantum machine learning or tractable probabilistic models constitutes a significant advantage. Prior research exposure, such as publications or involvement in scientific projects, is beneficial. The position suits someone who enjoys conceptual work, is comfortable engaging with abstract models, likes implementing prototype algorithms, and is motivated to contribute to emerging connections between probabilistic and quantum approaches to AI.
Information
For more information on the programme and the role, please contact Dr. Pedro Zuidberg Dos Martires, e-mail: pedro.zuidberg-dos-martires@oru.se. For administrative issues, please contact Prof. Martin Magnusson, e-mail: martin.magnusson@oru.se.
At Örebro University, we expect each member of staff to be open to development and change; take responsibility for their work and performance; demonstrate a keen interest in collaboration and contribute to development; as well as to show respect for others by adopting a constructive and professional approach.
Örebro University actively pursues equal opportunities and gender equality as well as a work environment characterized by openness, trust, and respect. We value the qualities that diversity adds to our operations.
Application to the Programme and for the Doctoral Studentships
The application is made online. Click the button “Apply” to begin the application procedure.
For the application to be complete, the following electronic documents must be included:
- Description of research interests - explaining your research interest in the project and how your background fits the position (1 page)
- Curriculum vitae
- Independent project (degree project/thesis)
- Proof that you meet the general and specific entry requirements (e.g. copies of the original certificate and official transcript for bachelor's and master's degrees)
- Other relevant documents, course and degree certificates verifying eligibility
As a main rule, application documents and attachments are to be written in Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, or English. Certificates and documents in other languages verifying your qualifications and experience must be translated by an authorised translator to Swedish or English. A list of authorised translators can be obtained from Kammarkollegiet (the Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency), www.kammarkollegiet.se/engelska/start.
When you apply for admission, you automatically also apply for a doctoral studentship.
More information for applicants will be found at our career site: https://www.oru.se/english/working-at-orebro-university/jobs-and-vacancies/applicants-and-external-experts/
The application deadline is 2026-01-12 (January 12th). We look forward to receiving your application!
We decline any contact with advertisers or recruitment agencies in the recruitment process.
As directed by the National Archives of Sweden (Riksarkivet), we are required to deposit one file copy of the application documents, excluding publications, for a period of two years after the appointment decision has gained legal force.
