PhD Position in Network Automation

at  Universiteit van Amsterdam

PhD Position in Network Automation
Faculteit/Dienst: Faculteit der Natuurw., Wiskunde & Informatica
Opleidingsniveau: Master
Functie type: Promotieplaats
Sluitingsdatum: 25 november 2024
Vacaturenummer: 13527
Are you passionate about the future of network automation control and the integration of machine learning into networking systems? We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position within the MultiScale Networked Systems (MNS) research group, focusing on the convergence of automation, in-network machine learning, and control-theoretic approaches for next-generation networks.
In this role, you will explore advanced methodologies to automate network control and orchestration, leveraging machine learning techniques to optimize real-time data processing directly within the network fabric. You will also investigate control-theoretic models to achieve formally robust and reliable network management. This research will be integral to enhancing the flexibility, reliability, and performance of future networks, including 6G systems.
You will be embedded in the MNS group. The group focuses its research on the fundamental architectural problems that arise from the interconnection of systems and of data flows. We look at the emerging architectures that can support the operations of the future Internet. More information can be found here.

YOUR EXPERIENCE AND PROFILE:

• A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Network Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or C/C++ and familiarity with networking technologies like SDN, NFV, P4, or eBPF.
• Knowledge of networking protocols, optimization, machine learning algorithms, and basic control theoretic concepts.
• An interest in both theoretical and applied research in next-generation networks.
• Proficiency in English and excellent communication skills.
• Commitment to maintaining an inclusive, collaborative, diverse, supportive work environment.

ABOUT US

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the Netherlands’ largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 42,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.
The Faculty of Science (FNWI) has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.
The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.
The MultiScale Networked Systems (MNS) group is part of the Informatics Institute at the University of Amsterdam. The group focusses its research on multiscale systems e.g. cloud systems or clusters that define themselves by their dynamic size and scale, and on the network connecting them. The MNS group explores the emerging architectures that can support emerging applications across the future internet.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop innovative approaches for network automation using software-defined and programmable networking technologies.
• Design and implement machine learning algorithms specifically for in-network processing, enabling real-time adaptation to network conditions.
• Apply control-theoretic principles to model and optimize network behavior, focusing on end-to-end robustness and reliability.
• Work with state-of-the-art testbeds and participate in collaborative research efforts, including national and international projects.
• Publish and present work regularly at international conferences, workshops, and journals.
• Assist in teaching activities (labs) and in supervising bachelor and master students.
• Complete and defend your PhD thesis.