Join AI:GENOMIX: Two PhD Positions in AI Driven Genomic Research

Your work tasks

The AI:GENOMIX Lab is recruiting for two closely connected PhD stipends, each with its own scientific emphasis but with substantial collaboration between them:

• Stipend 1: AI Core – Deep learning models for genetic interactions

  This stipend focuses on developing and analysing deep learning architectures capable of capturing non-additive genetic effects in large-scale genomic data.

• Stipend 2: AI Integrated – Genetic interaction models in a biological and clinical context

  This stipend centres on applying and interpreting genetic interaction models in relation to human biology, molecular function, and clinical phenotypes.

As a PhD student in AI:GENOMIX, your research will revolve around understanding how combinations of genetic variants shape disease risk and how AI methods can most effectively model these patterns. Both stipends involve working with simulated data, biobank-scale genomic resources, and functional annotations to explore the potential of modelling non-additive genetic effects across the genome. Your work will include preparing and curating data, developing or applying advanced modelling approaches, conducting systematic benchmarking studies, and analysing the methodological and biological implications of your findings.

You will work closely with supervisors and with the fellow PhD student in the complementary stipend, contribute to scientific publications, present your work at conferences, and participate in the interdisciplinary activities of the AI:X-Lab. As part of your doctoral training, you will complete relevant PhD courses and engage in academic and departmental activities, which may include limited teaching or supervision tasks in accordance with departmental needs and your own competencies.

Your competencies

We are looking for two highly motivated PhD candidates who are eager to contribute to an interdisciplinary research environment and who are comfortable working across the boundaries of AI, genetics, and health sciences. For both stipends, we value curiosity, the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, and a commitment to producing high-quality research. You should enjoy engaging in discussions across disciplines and be open to learning from colleagues with backgrounds different from your own. Strong English communication skills, a willingness to contribute to a positive team atmosphere, and the ability to manage complex tasks over time are important qualities for both positions.

For Stipend 1 (AI Core), we seek a candidate with a strong methodological profile and an interest in developing new AI models for high-dimensional biological data. You should have a solid foundation in areas such as machine learning, applied mathematics, statistics, or computational modelling, and you should be comfortable working with large datasets and modern deep learning frameworks. Experience with neural network design, optimisation techniques, or scalable computing is an advantage, as is an interest in exploring how mathematical models can reveal new insights into genomic architecture.

For Stipend 2 (AI Integrated), we are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in human genetics and the biological interpretation of complex traits. You should have experience with genetic data analysis, statistical genetics, and be motivated to understand how AI-based models can be connected to biological function and clinical relevance. Familiarity with genomic data processing, phenotyping, or functional annotation is beneficial, as is an interest in bridging computational methods with biological insight.

Qualification requirements

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science (stipend 1) or at the Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology (stipend 2) in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. As part of the PhD study, you are among other things required to complete PhD courses corresponding to 30 ECTS, gain experience with teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination and complete an external research stay outside of Aalborg University, preferably 3-6 months at a foreign research institution.

How to apply

Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position,
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Diplomas (bachelor’s and master's degree diploma, including grades)
• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website.