Doctoral student in discrete optimization and computational complexity

We are looking for a Doctoral student to become part of our team at the Division of Applied Mathematics and Statistics at the Department of Mathematical Sciences. Under the supervision of Malin Rau, you will  contribute to impactful research in optimization.   About us  The department of Mathematical Sciences has about 200 employees and is the largest department of mathematics in Sweden. The department has three scientific divisions: Algebra and Geometry, Analysis and Probability Theory, and Applied Mathematics and Statistics and conducts successful research in pure and applied mathematics and mathematical statistics in a wide range of research areas. We have an international environment with frequent exchanges with other universities around the world. The department provides a friendly, creative, and supportive atmosphere with a steady flow of international guests. We strive to offer an environment where you can combine world-leading research and teaching with a good work-life balance.  At the division of Applied Mathematics and Statistics we conduct research within the theory and implementation of biomathematics, biostatistics, spatial modeling, differential equations, Bayesian inference, large-scale computational methods, bioinformatics, data science, machine learning, optimisation, numerical methods. Please read more about the position and our department on our dedicated webpage. About the research project   The project is in the field of optimization, and in particular the project focuses on the design of approximation algorithms for multi-dimensional packing and scheduling problems. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to the theoretical foundations of discrete optimization and explore applications in combinatorial problem-solving. Who we are looking for The following requirements are mandatory: • To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in mathematics, or applied mathematics, or computer science. Alternatively, you expect to complete such a degree by September 1, 2026. • You will need strong written and verbal communication skills in English  *for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.  The following experience will strengthen your application:  • Experience in some of the following areas: programming, optimization. What you will do • Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Mathematics or Applied Mathematics and Statistics   • Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing  • The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours  Contract terms   • The Doctoral student position is fully funded from start.  • The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.  • A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025).  • Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.  What we offer  • As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about  working at Chalmers  and our benefits for employees.  • A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.  • Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.  Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.  If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in. Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.   Application procedure  The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.  CV (max 2 pages)  Personal letter (max 2 page)  • A brief introduction about yourself.  • A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position.  Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts.  Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.   Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Reference contact information will be requested after interviews conducted between March 9 and March 20, 2026. Note that you do not need an acceptance letter from the supervisor. TOEFL/IELTS is not a requirement, and the English proficiency is typically documented by a master's thesis or other reports written in English. We welcome your application no later than February 23, 2026    For questions, please contact:   Dr Malin Rau (main supervisor) Dr Irina Pettersson (head of unit, Applied Mathematics and Statistics) We look forward to your application!  *** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***    Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.  Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.