PhD Position in Network Automation

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.

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.

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). The 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.