The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics seeks a postdoctoral researcher within geometric deep learning. The employment is full-time for two years starting from August 1st 2025 or by agreement. Apply latest April 7th 2025.

Project description
Geometric deep learning refers to the study of machine learning problems involving a-priori known symmetries. A simple example are convolutional neural networks, that are known to be invariant towards translations. Using representation theory, one can build networks that are invariant, or more generally equivariant, towards a very broad class of symmetries. These networks are mathematically highly intriguing, but have also been successfully used in several science-related applications.
Explicitly accounting for symmetry is not the standard approach in machine learning – a well set up model should be able to ‘detect’ the symmetry automatically. One way to encourage the model to respect the symmetry is to explicitly make sure that the data is symmetric – one speaks about data augmentation.

In order to understand the relation between these approaches, we need to understand the effect of symmetric data on the training of neural networks. This will be the overarching goal of the post doc. The problem can be approached from many different angles. We are mainly interested in studying the problem theoretically.

The chosen candidate will be given the opportunity to work within the group for mathematical foundations for AI. This young, dynamic and international group is an environment bringing excellent opportunities for the researcher to develop their scientific interests and strengthen their qualifications. They are expected to work together with the current researcher in the groups on existing projects, but will also be given the opportunity to develop and work on their own research ideas.

The project is part of the AI/MLX track of the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software Program (WASP). WASP is Sweden’s largest individual research program ever, a major national initiative for strategically motivated basic research, education and faculty recruitment. The program addresses research on artificial intelligence and autonomous systems acting in collaboration with humans, adapting to their environment through sensors, information and knowledge, and forming intelligent systems-of-systems. The vision of WASP is excellent research and competence in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and software for the benefit of Swedish society and industry. Read more: https://wasp-sweden.org/

Umeå provides outstanding working and living conditions. This youthful city is situated beside a large river, surrounded by forests and lakes, and is near the sea. The area offers numerous opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities.

For more information and application instructions, please visit:
https://umu.varbi.com/what:job/jobID:802275/