Fully Funded PhD position in Probabilistic ML (ref. BAP-2025-669)

PSI performs demand-driven research in the field of image and audio processing. This research approach offers the opportunity to respond to social and economic trends. Methodologically, the research belongs to the domains of computational science and machine learning. During the previous decades computers became more powerful and the amount of sensorial data increased. Modeling and exploiting this large amount of data (data science) is one of the current challenges and opportunities.
Our research is mainly funded through Flemish projects, European projects, and projects with industry. We have also created several spin-off companies and have registered several patents.
PSI is a division of the department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) and is located in the Arenberg Campus of KU Leuven and in the University Hospital Gasthuisberg.

https://www.esat.kuleuven.be/p...

Project

We are constituting a new research group focusing on probabilistic machine learning, with applications to speech (audio) and theoretical (statistical) physics, at KU Leuven. We are focusing on uncertainty estimation and generative AI, both of which are active topics of research these days. When AI models estimate uncertainty (or posterior distribution, instead of a point estimate) while making predictions, they become more trustworthy and efficient. For instance, instead of transcribing an audio snippet as “this talk”, a speech recognition model could transcribe it as “this talk (60% confidence)” and “the stock (30% confidence)”. We also develop efficient sampling methods for high dimensional systems using flow based methods.
We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate who can bridge cutting-edge probabilistic ML research with impactful real‑world applications — someone who deeply understands theoretical advances, and brings creativity and practical skills to identify, design, and implement compelling usecases.

Profile

• An ideal candidate has a master degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, orArtificial Intelligence, with solid foundations in probability theory and machine learning. We particularly encourage applicants with above-average grades, awards, and scientific publications. Background in speech, signal processing, or statistical physics is a plus.
• Excellent programming skills are necessary.
• Excellent English language proficiency is required, along with strong oral and written communication skills.
• The PhD students will work on research projects that involve frequent interactions with both internal and external researchers.

The positions can start immediately, and positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. Interested PhD candidates should send their CV, their transcripts, contact information of 2 or 3 referees, and a motivation letter using the KU Leuven system. The motivation letter should clearly outline the interests in probabilistic ML and its applications, as well as possible past experience in AI and possibly speech/physics.

Offer

• A full time PhD scholarship of 1 year, extendible until max. 4 years.
• A stimulating environment at Europe's most innovative university, in a well-equipped, experienced and internationally oriented research unit.
• The research will be based at the Department of Electrical Engineering at the Arenberg Campus in Heverlee (close to the center of Leuven).