Simula Research Laboratory AS

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 research areas in ICT and performing excellent research, by developing our people, and by spinning out applicable results into profitable startups. In short, “we hire the best people, those who arepersonally driven to push boundaries and innovate - and then we give them the tools, space and freedom to do just that.” (CEO, Prof. Aslak Tveito)

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Project Description

Data mining holds the promise to improve our understanding of dynamics of complex systems such as the human metabolome (i.e., the complete set of small biochemical compounds in the human body) by discovering the underlying patterns, i.e., subsystems, in data collected from these systems. The complexity of the systems requires collection of data sets from multiple sources using different technologies recording the behavior of the system from complementary viewpoints. This project will formulate a mathematical framework for analysis of multi-modal data sets, derive efficient algorithms and apply the developed methods on unique data sets, primarily focusing on the analysis of longitudinal metabolomics measurements and genetics information from the COPSAC2000 cohort.

The project is in collaboration between Simula Metropolitan Center for Digital Engineering (SimulaMet), University of Copenhagen, University of Amsterdam and COPSAC (Danish Pediatric Asthma Centre, Copenhagen). Open positions are based at SimulaMet in Oslo, Norway and include short or long-term stays with the partners.

For PhD student positions, we consider interested candidates who have a BS and MS degree in computer science, data science/machine learning, signal processing, statistics, and applied mathematics.

Other required qualifications include

• strong background in at least one (or preferably more) of the following topics: numerical linear algebra, optimization, dynamic systems, time series analysis, and data mining, proved by top grades,
• ability to carry out interdisciplinary research, and strong interest in dealing with the challenges of real data,
• 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 MS,
• previous experience with matrix/tensor factorizations is a plus.

For postdoctoral researcher positions, we consider interested candidates who have a PhD degree in computer science, data science/machine learning, signal processing, statistics, and applied mathematics.

Other required qualifications include

• strong background in numerical linear algebra and/or numerical optimization methods,
• previous experience with low-rank approximations,
• high quality publications in one of the topics mentioned above,
• interest in data mining and carrying out interdisciplinary research,
• 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 MS,
• previous experience with dynamic systems or time-evolving data analysis is a plus.

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. We strive to achieve a good balance between male and female employees, and women are particularly encouraged to apply.

We offer

• 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.
• High-standard facilities and offices located in Oslo.
• Numerous benefits: access to company cabin, BabyBonus arrangements, sponsored social events, generous equipment budgets (e.g., computer, phone and subscription), subsidized canteen meals and monthly bus pass, comprehensive travel/health insurance policy, etc.
• Relocation assistance: accommodation, visas, complimentary Norwegian language courses, etc.
• 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:

• Curriculum vitae summarizing education, positions and academic or industrial work, scientific publications
• A cover letter explaining the candidate’s background, qualifications, research interests
• Contact information of three references (including the main PhD supervisor)
• Academic transcripts
• Research statement of max. two pages for the postdoc applicants

Applications can only be submitted via our online system, applications submitted by email will not be considered.

Contact person: Evrim Acar (evrim@simula.no)

Applications deadline: 31 May 2020

Applications will be screened continuously and a decision will be made as soon as we find the right candidate.

During the Covid-19 outbreak we are open for candidates to start their work remotely.

Simula Metropolitan Center for Digital Engineering uses Semac´s background check in our recruitment process.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.

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