PhD Position in Multimodal Learning
Data Science and Knowledge Discovery Department (DataSci) at Simula Metropolitan Center for Digital Engineering (Oslo, Norway) is looking for a highly-motivated, self-driven and curious PhD student with a strong background in numerical linear algebra and machine learning.
Simula: solving problems, making a difference.
Simula’s mission is to solve important and fundamental problems of science and engineering, with the main goal of improving society. We do this by concentrating on five select research areas in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) and performing excellent research, by developing our people, and by spinning out applicable results into profitable startups.
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Job Description
Research activities at DataSci focus on developing data science/machine learning (ML) methods focusing on multimodal learning, knowledge-guided ML and interpretable pattern discovery as well as their applications in various fields, in particular, in (multimodal & longitudinal) omics and neuroimaging data analysis. The group has strong expertise in tensor decompositions, which lie at the heart of AI. DataSci develops models and algorithms, and releases open-access toolboxes pushing the state-of-the-art in data science in terms of multimodal learning and interpretable pattern discovery. The group has a wide network of collaborators and has access to unique data and research challenges provided by clinical partners. We are looking for a PhD student who will be part of this interdisciplinary and international research environment, and share our passion to develop impactful data science methods pushing the frontiers in multiple disciplines.
This PhD project will focus on multimodal learning. Data sets from diverse sources are collected in many applications to have a better understanding of complex systems such as the human brain, human metabolome, or to detect early risk factors for various diseases. For instance, to detect early life risk factors of various diseases, multi-omics data sets including genetic, longitudinal metabolomics and microbiome data are collected. Such multimodal data sets are often noisy, incomplete, and multiway (i.e., with more than two axes of variation such as subjects, metabolites, and time). Some data sets change in time (e.g., longitudinal measurements) while some are static. A crucial requirement for ML/data science methods to turn such complex data into knowledge is interpretability. An effective multimodal approach which is explainable and interpretable by design is to learn latent embeddings jointly from multiple data sets via coupled matrix/tensor factorizations. On the other hand, there are multimodal foundation models being developed in many disciplines to address similar challenges in the presence of abundant data. The topic of the PhD research will lie at the intersection of multimodal learning, self-supervised learning, contrastive learning and (coupled) tensor decompositions. The project will focus on developing interpretable multimodal learning methods jointly analyzing data from abundant and scarce data modalities, exploring the nonlinearity-interpretability tradeoff.
We will consider candidates who have a BS and MS degree (both) in computer science, data science/machine learning, signal processing, and applied mathematics. Other required qualifications include
- strong background in at least one (or preferably more) of the following topics: numerical linear algebra, numerical optimization, data science, and ML, proved by top grades,
- fluency in MATLAB and/or Python with a well-established background in programming, proved by relevant programming courses,
- an average GPA of at least B in BS, and A in MS,
- previous experience with low-rank approximations is a plus, and interest in dealing with the challenges of real data is desired but not required,
- sharing Simula’s core values: respect, ambition, curiosity, and excellence.
All candidates will also have to demonstrate an excellent level of spoken and written English, possess good interpersonal and communication skills and show willingness to work as part of an international team.
Simula Offers
- Excellent opportunities for performing high-quality research, as part of a highly competent and motivated team of international researchers and engineers,
- An informal and inclusive international working environment,
- Generous support for travel and opportunities to build international networks, through established collaboration with industry, exchange programs and research visits with other universities, and funding to attend conferences,
- Modern office facilities located in downtown Oslo,
- A competitive salary. Starting salary from NOK 550 800
- Numerous benefits: access to company cabin, sponsored social events, generous equipment budgets (e.g., computer, phone and subscription), subsidized canteen meals, comprehensive travel/health insurance policy,
- Relocation assistance: accommodation, visas, complimentary Norwegian language courses,
- Administrative research support: e.g., quality assurance process for grant proposals (including RCN and EU programs),
- Wellness and work-life balance. Our employees’ health and well-being is a priority and we encourage them to make use of our flexible work arrangements to help balance their work and home lives efficiently.
Application Requirements
Interested applicants are requested to submit the following:
- CV showing your educational background, work experience (in particular, any relevant academic or industrial work), a list of scientific publications and talks (if applicable),
- Transcripts for both Bachelor and MS degrees (see the grade requirements above),
- Cover letter outlining your motivation for applying, relevant experience and qualifications, research interests and how/why you are qualified for the position,
- Contact information of three references
Applications can only be submitted via our online application system, applications submitted by email will not be considered.
Contact person: Evrim Acar (evrim@simula.no)
Deadline: March 15, 2026 - Applications will be screened continuously and a decision will be made as soon as we find the right candidate.
About SimulaMet, Simula and Norway
SimulaMet is a research centre jointly owned by Simula Research Laboratory, a publicly owned research lab, and Oslo Metropolitan University. It is the home of Simula’s research activities on networks and communications, artificial intelligence and IT management, and it is OsloMet’s strategic partner in digital engineering.
Simula is organised as a group of legal units which together perform Simula's activities in research, education and innovation. The name “Simula” often refers to this group of companies. SimulaMet is part of the Simula group.
Simula conducts Information and Communication Technology (ICT) research in the fields of scientific computing, machine learning, software engineering, communication systems, and cybersecurity.
Simula's main objective is to create knowledge about fundamental scientific challenges that are of genuine value for society. This is achieved through high-quality research, education of graduate students, industry collaboration, technology transfer, and commercialization. Since 2001, scientific evaluations conducted by the Research Council of Norway have repeatedly placed Simula at the forefront of international research in ICT. In 2025, a new evaluation ranked Simula the highest of all Norwegian research institutions regarding impact and publication quality (p14. in National EVALMIT rapport).
Simula appreciates diversity. We currently employ approximately 200 individuals from 35 countries and strive to create a family-friendly working environment. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage women to apply.
Simula has a close collaboration with leading universities in Norway and abroad, both in terms of research and education, and facilitates extended research stays abroad. Our Master's and PhD students conduct their research at Simula, and attend courses and receive their degrees from university partners.
Norway is famous for its epic outdoor scenery, with wonderful fjords, gorgeous waterfalls and majestic mountain ranges. Moreover, Norway is a safe and peaceful country with a thriving economy, offering a high standard of living and all the benefits of a social-democratic welfare state, such as social security and universal public healthcare.
Learn more about Norway: Official travel guide to Norway
Simula uses Semac’s background check in our recruitment process.
Employment for this position will be made according to the Security Act and the Act relating to Control of the Export of Strategic Goods, Services and Technology. Candidates who by assessment of the application and any attachments are considered to be in conflict with these regulations will not qualify for this position.
According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.