Teaser Text

The current generation of generative AI systems is still based on transformer-based Large Language Models, but they go far beyond language modelling in both complexity and capabilities. AI systems such as ChatGPT and Claude are collections of tools and agents, steered by complex system prompts. These developments have created new possibilities for agentic AI. Important research topics in agentic AI include agent memory, continual learning, the integration of other AI methods such as reinforcement learning and classical symbolic AI approaches, as well as how to interact with and evaluate modern intelligent agents.

The impact of AI agents on the field of scientific discovery and mathematics is substantial. Furthermore, agentic assistants in coding, medical, finance, and commerce are being created at a high pace but often lack scientific grounding in terms of e.g., evaluation and long-term impact. Agentic AI appears to remain a topic of high interest in both foundational research as well as applied research for the foreseeable future. There is a large interest from researchers, industry, and students.

LIACS has a strong multidisciplinary AI portfolio (Machine Learning, Human-Computer Interaction, Natural Language Processing, Natural Computing, Systems), both in research and in education, and is happy to further strengthen this with an assistant professor position on Agentic AI.

What you will do

• Conduct and supervise original research in the field of Agentic AI;
• Publish and present scientific work at international journals and conferences;
• Write project proposals to acquire research funding, also in interdisciplinary topics;
• Contribute to teaching in both the master and bachelor programs, including the Dutch informatics program;
• Supervise students in both the Human AI and the Machine Learning clusters, which together have a major share of BSc- and MSc supervisions in LIACS;
• Engage in collaboration with other researchers within and outside LIACS.

Where you will work

What you bring

• A PhD degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence or a closely related field;
• Experience as a postdoctoral researcher with independent research output;
• A strong publication record;
• A strong interest and experience in interdisciplinary and collaborative research;
• Excellent teaching and supervision skills;
• Excellent writing and presentation skills;
• Proficiency in Dutch (at least C1) and professional English.

What we offer

• We offer a full-time position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of research, teaching, personal capabilities, and compatibility, the appointment will be extended to a permanent contract. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
• A salary between € 4.728,= until € 6.433,= gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (38 hours, Payscale 11);
• A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
• Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
• Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.
• Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
• If your work allows it, hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands;
• A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces. The University will also provide you with a laptop.

What we value

Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent.

Want to apply or find out more?