PhD Candidate / PhD Candidate

Join the ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research

UniBE is a prestigious institution renowned for its excellence and global influence in the academic arena. By joining us, you will benefit from the esteemed reputation that has been cultivated over many years.

Start Date

The anticipated start date for this position is July 1, 2026, or by arrangement.

Employment Relationship

This is a fixed-term position.

Institution / Workplace

ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research

General Information

The ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research at the University of Bern is a transdisciplinary Center of Excellence focused on medical technology research. Our mission is to address unmet clinical needs while envisioning new solutions for future diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment in healthcare technology through creativity and purpose.

The Artificial Intelligence in Health and Nutrition (AIHN) laboratory at ARTORG has an exciting opening for a Ph.D. student position specializing in mechanism-informed multimodal AI models. The successful candidate will engage in the development of advanced AI methods that merge mechanistic knowledge with data-driven strategies as part of a large international research consortium. Key responsibilities include:

• Development of mechanism-informed multimodal AI models
• Mechanism formalization and discovery utilizing knowledge-driven, data-driven, and hybrid methodologies
• Causal inference and modeling (e.g., Structural, Temporal, and Dynamic Causal Models)

Ph.D. candidates will be enrolled at the University of Bern, with positions funded for up to four years. Salaries will be aligned with Swiss University regulations. Our laboratory offers an international environment that encourages exceptional research collaboration with engineers, computer scientists, healthcare professionals, and industry partners. The University of Bern fosters an inclusive culture that nurtures engagement with society and strengthens partnerships across science, medicine, business, and policy.

Requirements

• MSc in computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related field
• Strong foundation in machine learning
• Solid grasp of mathematical modeling, probability, and optimization
• Experience with Python and deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch)
• Excellent command of English
• Commitment to multidisciplinary research

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with causal inference methods (e.g., SCMs, Bayesian networks)
• Knowledge of dynamical systems or systems biology
• Experience with multimodal biomedical data
• Familiarity with knowledge graphs and ontologies
• Experience with generative AI models (e.g., VAEs, diffusion models, multimodal transformers)

Your Benefits

• Robust research infrastructure and international network
• Strong global reputation
• Collaborative environment with an ambitious team
• Individual career support

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern not only offers exciting opportunities but also a developmental environment that champions diversity and equal opportunities. Discover what sets us apart as an employer and learn how you can thrive with us.

Application and Contact

If you are interested in joining an international and interdisciplinary team, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Questions about the position?

For any inquiries regarding the position, please refer to the Application and Contact section.

Questions about the application?

For questions regarding the application process, please consult the Application and Contact section.