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The Chair of Computing and Society at the Faculty of Informatics is looking for a

PhD on Human-Centric Large Language Models (m,f,x), for 3 years, 39.83 hours per week, TVL E13

The Chair of Computing and Society is working on research elements and theoretical developments as well as practical applications in the area of “Large Language Models”. The research will play a crucial role in the development of our new research center and the dissemination of trusted technology to the general public.

Conducting empirical and theoretical research that investigates the function of Large Language Models (LLMs). Analyzing quantitative data and evaluating result models. Collaborating with researchers from various disciplines to develop innovative approaches for human-centered use of LLMs.

extent: full-time
duration: temporary
beginning: from 15.01.2025
application deadline:
18.11.2024

Your tasks:

  • Conduct empirical and theoretical research that examines the function of Large Language Models (LLMs)
  • Design and execute controlled experiments to assess how LLM outputs align with societal values
  • Train and fine-tune LLMs
  • Independently analyze quantitative data
  • Collaborate with researchers from different disciplines to develop innovative approaches for human-centered use of LLMs

Your profile:

  • Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics or Statistics.
  • Solid grasp of the fundamental ML concepts like bias-variance tradeoff, generalization and cross-validation.
  • Prior working experience with NLP and LLMs.
  • Experience with Python and ML frameworks like PyTorch and HuggingFace Transformers.
  • High proficiency in English, both written and spoken, for scientific publications and presentations

Our offerings:

  • Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility
  • team-oriented collaboration in a committed, international and appreciative team
  • a job at one of Germany's largest universities in the University Alliance Ruhr network
  • a healthy work-life balance
  • family-friendly working

Additional information:

At the request of the applicant (m,f,x), the staff council may be involved in selection interviews. https://www.wpr.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/

If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZfA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).
https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en

You can find information about TVL at: https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is RUB’s declared aim.


The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Contact details for your application:

Prof. Dr. Bilal Zafar, Phone: +49234 32 15079

Travel expenses for interviews cannot be refunded.

For information on the collection of personal data in the application process see: https://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/information-collection-personal-data-application-process.

We are looking forward to receiving your application with the specification ANR: 3923 until 18.11.2024, send by e-mail to the following address: bilal.zafar@rub.de

Please get in touch with the contact person named above if you would like to use an alternative application channel.

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