Senior Researcher in Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (SUPSI 26_5042)
The University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI) invites applications for a Senior Researcher in Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence, at the Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence (IDSIA USI-SUPSI) within the Department of Innovative Technologies (DTI), located in Lugano. The degree of employment is 50%, with a contract starting on 01.01.2027, or on a mutually agreed date.
Duties and responsibilities
- Pursue independent research agenda in theory and applications in the areas of imprecise probabilities, probabilistic circuits, graphical models, computational complexity of AI models.
- Cooperate in R&D teams to execute projects related to industry. Strong collaboration with software engineers, researchers and industry partners.
- (Co-)supervise scientific personnel.
- Participate in and/or (co-)lead research projects.
- Participate in developing proposals towards (research) grant acquisition.
- (Co-)write scientific papers (i.e., both conference and journal articles) and internal reports.
- Present work to a wide audience (e.g., conferences, project partners review meetings).
Requirements
Essential
- PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Informatics, or other quantitative fields.
- Excellent theoretical background in computer science and probabilistic machine learning and AI, including probabilistic graphical models and imprecise probability.
- Strong programming skills in C/C++, python, R.
- Strong publication record of scientific papers in highly respectable venues in machine learning and AI.
- Substantial track-record of grant acquisition and project participation.
- Prior supervision of bachelor, master, and PhD candidates until successful completion.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Desirable
- Good working knowledge of written and spoken Italian.
- Good organizational skills, ability to work independently and to plan and direct own work.
- Ability to work in a team and with colleagues and other members of the Institute, engage in scientific dialogue.
- Strong motivation and commitment to fulfill research activities, milestones, and deadlines.
- High motivation and commitment with a strong desire for research and publishing at top conferences and journals.
- Past leadership of a research group is a plus.
What SUPSI Offers
- Two-years fixed-term contract, with possibility of renewal.
- Workplace at IDSIA USI-SUPSI in the new campus in Lugano (Switzerland).
- An international working environment.
- Attractive salary in line with Swiss standards and the experience of the candidate.
- Covering the costs of participation in high-profile conferences.
Our Commitment
SUPSI believes that the future is shaped by diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and a culture that is equitable, inclusive, and respectful of differences.
Application Process
Applications will only be considered if submitted electronically by 15.10.2026, through the dedicated application form (email submissions will be ignored). The following documents, written in English, must be included:
- Curriculum vitae and publications list
- Name and e-mail address of two reference contacts
- A motivation letter, including a brief description of past research experience and future interests
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Marco Zaffalon. Incomplete applications, those submitted to incorrect addresses, or those received after the deadline will not be considered. In addition to the required application documents, further documentation (such as a criminal record certificate or a copy of an identity document) may be requested at a later stage.