PhD in Machine Learning (Reinforcement Learning and Bandits) at Stockholm University (DSV)

Job Description

Stockholm University’s Department of Computer and Systems Sciences (DSV) is recruiting a PhD student in machine learning focused on algorithms and theoretical foundations for learning systems that make sequential decisions in uncertain environments. The emphasis is on reinforcement learning, bandit methods and multi-agent systems, with topics such as efficient exploration, online decision-making and scalable AI, and possible applications in healthcare, cyber-physical systems and foundation models. Depending on the candidate, the work can lean towards algorithm design, mathematical analysis or applications.

At a glance

• Position: Doctoral student (1 post), four years full time
• Where: Department of Computer and Systems Sciences (DSV), Kista campus
• Contact: Assoc. Prof. Sindri Magnússon, sindri.magnusson@dsv.su.se
• Reference: SU FV-2882-26
• Apply by: 15 October 2026
• Apply: 15 October 2026

About the machine learning PhD

• Develop new algorithms and theory for reinforcement learning, bandits and multi-agent systems
• Work on efficient exploration, learning under uncertainty and online decision-making
• Explore applications in healthcare, autonomous and cyber-physical systems, and foundation models including LLMs
• Take part in seminars and collaborations with academia and industry

Selection is based on independence in earlier scientific work, problem formulation and rigour in earlier work and in the research plan, a record of meeting deadlines, methodological maturity, communication and cooperation skills, and subject knowledge.

How doctoral employment works at Stockholm University

Doctoral students are employed for up to the equivalent of four years of full-time study. The first contract is for up to one year and is then renewed for up to two years at a time, and up to 20% of working time may go to teaching, research or administration. Apply through the university’s recruitment system with a personal letter, a CV and the attachments the form asks for.

PhD applicants: browse our Find a supervisor directory to see who works in your area.

What Stockholm University is looking for

• General entry: a second-cycle degree, or 240 credits including 60 at second-cycle level, or equivalent knowledge
• Specific entry: at least 60 second-cycle credits in computer and systems sciences or equivalent, and a degree project of at least 15 credits
• English at CEFR level B2
• Requirements must be met by the application deadline

Nice to have

• A background in machine learning, computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering or a related field
• Methods from optimisation, probability and statistics

Pay and location

Doctoral students at Stockholm University are paid a fixed salary; the advert gives no figure but mentions a competitive salary, wellness benefits and funding for books and conference travel.

How to apply

Apply through the official Stockholm University page. The closing date is 15 October 2026.

See all our PhD positions, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.