About the job

In our research group, we are seeking radical breakthroughs for unconventional computing exploring spin-based device technologies (Artificial Spin Ice (ASI)). One of our research visions is to use artificial spin systems as a platform for efficient and powerful data analysis at all scales, ranging from low power computation in the simplest sensor node to accelerated data processing in the most complex supercomputer. We are currently looking for PhD candidates to explore the computational possibilities in 2D artificial spin systems and explore the case for such systems to be harnessed for data processing.

These positions are part of the SPrINTER project funded by the Research Council of Norway and NTNU. In the SPrINTER project, experts in the fields of nanotechnology and computer science join forces to create a radically new technology for low-power wireless devices that do not require batteries to operate. We propose a technology built on the unique properties of nanomagnets to achieve our ambitious goal. Read more about SPrINTER.

The work will require extensive modelling and simulation work. As part of the project team, the candidate will also contribute to experimental work on the physical nanosystems, e.g., measurements using Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM), MOKE (Magneto-optic Kerr effect microscopy), and measurements on synchrotron facilities abroad.

For a position as a PhD Candidate, the goal is a completed doctoral education up to an obtained doctoral degree.

Formally, the positions report to the Head of the Computing unit.

Duties of the position

• To actively take part in the multidisciplinary activity of the research group (project meetings, workshops, etc.).
• Research in the field of unconventional computing, model development, simulations, and experimental work (simulation based and physical laboratory experiments). 
• To actively take part in the guidance of master students in the group.
• To develop and disseminate research results on the subject through scientific publications.
• To contribute to the teaching activities at the department (duty work).

Required selection criteria

• Strong programming skills.
• You must have a professionally relevant background in computer science, or equivalent.
• Your education must correspond to a five-year Norwegian degree programme, where 120 credits are obtained at master's level.
• You must have a strong academic background from your previous studies and an average grade from the master's degree program, or equivalent education, which is equal to B or better compared with NTNU's grading scale. If you do not have letter grades from previous studies, you must have an equally good academic basis. If you have a weaker grade background, you may be assessed if you can document that you are particularly suitable for a PhD education.
• You must meet the requirements for admission to the faculty's doctoral program.

Candidates who are close to finishing their master’s studies are also encouraged to apply.

The appointment is to be made in accordance with  Regulations concerning the degrees of Philosophiae Doctor (PhD) and Philosodophiae Doctor (PhD) in artistic research national guidelines for appointment as PhD, post doctor and research assistant  

Preferred selection criteria

• Experience using high-performance computing infrastructure.
• Knowledge of complex system modelling.
• Knowledge of bio-inspired computation.
• Knowledge of Artificial Life.
• Proficiency in written and oral English.
• Interest in computer based simulated experiments. 

For candidates who are neither native English speakers nor from Scandinavia, the following tests can be used as documentation for English skills: TOEFL, Academic IELTS and Cambridge CAE or CPE.

Minimum scores are:

• TOEFL: 600 (paper-based test), 92 (Internet-based test)  
• IELTS: 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic IELTS test accepted) 
• CAE/CPE: grade B or A.

Personal characteristics

• Challenges the status quo and promotes new initiatives
• Sees the big picture and takes broader considerations into account
• Sets challenging goals and works hard to achieve them
• Identifies and acts on unresolved issues
• Is positive and enthusiastic, even in difficult situations
• Initiates activities and projects without needing support from others
• Works together with others across established reporting lines
• Promotes effectiveness in groups by facilitating and building on the ideas of others
• Shares information and expertise to achieve the desired result

We offer

• exciting and stimulating tasks in a strong international academic environment
• an open and inclusive work environment with dedicated colleagues
• favourable terms in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
• employee benefits

Salary and conditions

As a PhD candidate (code 1017) you are normally paid from gross NOK 501 200 per annum before tax, depending on qualifications and seniority. From the salary, 2% is deducted as a contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

The period of employment is 4 years with 25 % duty work.

Appointment to a PhD position requires that you are admitted to the PhD programme in Computer Science (PHCOS) within three months of employment, and that you participate in an organized PhD programme during the employment period. 

The engagement is to be made in accordance with the regulations in force concerning State Employees and Civil Servants, and the acts relating to Control of the Export of Strategic Goods, Services and Technology. Candidates who by assessment of the application and attachment are seen to conflict with the criteria in the latter law will be prohibited from recruitment to NTNU.

After the appointment you must assume that there may be changes in the area of work.

It is a prerequisite you can be present at and accessible to the institution daily.

About the application

The application and supporting documentation to be used as the basis for the assessment must be in English or a Scandinavian language.

Publications and other scientific work must follow the application. Please note that applications are only evaluated based on the information available on the application deadline. You should ensure that your application shows clearly how your skills and experience meet the criteria which are set out above. 

The application must include:

• A short (1-2 page) cover letter describing your motivation to apply for this position, suitability for this position, relevant qualifications, and research interests.
• CV, certificates, and diplomas.
• Transcripts and diplomas for bachelor's and master's degrees. 
• Name, current affiliation, and email address of at least 2 persons that will provide reference for you.
• If you have publications or other relevant research work.

If all, or parts, of your education has been taken abroad, we also ask you to attach documentation of the scope and quality of your entire education, both bachelor's and master's education, in addition to other higher education. Description of the documentation required can be found here. If you already have a statement from NOKUT, please attach this as well.

Joint works will be considered. If it is difficult to identify your contribution to joint works, you must attach a brief description of your participation.

In the evaluation of which candidate is best qualified, emphasis will be placed on education, experience and personal and interpersonal qualities. Motivation, ambitions, and potential will also count in the assessment of the candidates. 

NTNU is committed to following evaluation criteria for research quality according to The San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment - DORA.

General information

Working at NTNU

A good work environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, functional capacity or cultural background.

The city of Trondheim is a modern European city with a rich cultural scene. Trondheim is the innovation capital of Norway with a population of 200,000. The Norwegian welfare state, including healthcare, schools, kindergartens and overall equality, is probably the best of its kind in the world. Professional subsidized day-care for children is easily available. Furthermore, Trondheim offers great opportunities for education (including international schools) and possibilities to enjoy nature, culture and family life and has low crime rates and clean air quality.

As an employee at NTNU, you must at all times adhere to the changes that the development in the subject entails and the organizational changes that are adopted.

A public list of applicants with name, age, job title and municipality of residence is prepared after the application deadline. If you want to reserve yourself from entry on the public applicant list, this must be justified. Assessment will be made in accordance with current legislation. You will be notified if the reservation is not accepted.

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Prof. Gunnar Tufte, phone number +47 97402478, e-mail: gunnar.tufte@ntnu.no. If you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact HR at the Department, e.mail: hr@idi.ntnu.no.

If you think this looks interesting and in line with your qualifications, please submit your application electronically via jobbnorge.no with your CV, diplomas and certificates attached. Applications submitted elsewhere will not be considered. Upon request, you must be able to obtain certified copies of your documentation.  

Application deadline: 13.02.23

NTNU - knowledge for a better world

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) creates knowledge for a better world and solutions that can change everyday life.

Department of Computer Science 

We are the leading academic IT environment in Norway, and offer a wide range of theoretical and applied IT programmes of study at all levels. Our subject areas include hardware, algorithms, visual computing, AI, databases, software engineering, information systems, learning technology, HCI, CSCW, IT operations and applied data processing. The Department has groups in both Trondheim and Gjøvik. The Department of Computer Science is one of seven departments in the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering 

Deadline 13th February 2023
Employer NTNU - Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Municipality Trondheim
Scope Fulltime (2 positions)
Duration Temporary
Place of service NTNU Trondheim