AIMS-Tübingen Junior Research Chair in Machine Learning for Science

The successful candidate will be based at AIMS Research and Innovation Centre (AIMS RIC) in Kigali, Rwanda, but will also be integrated into the Cluster of Excellence “Machine Learning – New Perspectives for Science” at the University of Tübingen, Germany. AIMS RIC is the sixth centre of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), a pan-African network of Centres of Excellence for post-graduate training, research and public engagement in mathematical sciences. The network's six Centres are in South Africa (1), Senegal (1), Ghana (1), Cameroon (1), and Rwanda (2).

The AIMS-Tübingen Junior Research Chair in Machine Learning for Science is designed to strengthen mathematical higher education and research in Africa, promote networking between AIMS and German higher education institutions, particularly the University of Tübingen, and support networking among the various AIMS centres in Africa. The position is made possible through a partnership between the University of Tübingen and AIMS, as well as the Excellence Strategy of Germany, which is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).

Responsibilities of the AIMS-Tübingen Junior Research Chair in Machine Learning for Science

AIMS RIC is looking for aspiring scientists with a PhD to work on machine learning for science in a wide sense: either pursuing research on core machine learning or applying machine learning to a scientific discipline of your choice, be it in the natural sciences, social sciences, or life sciences. Specifically, a scientist who can:

• Develop and lead an exciting, high-quality program of research

• Supervise junior scientists including Postdoctoral Fellows, PhD Students, and Master students

• Contribute to the development and delivery of courses at AIMS Centres

• Host scientific events, including international conferences

• Publicly disseminate research results through high-quality peer-reviewed publications

• Disseminate research results through other media, for example, seminars, workshops, and colloquia

• Provide support to AIMS’ scientific development efforts as may be requested from time to time

• Strengthen the scientific links between the University of Tübingen and AIMS through fostering joint research projects and trainee co-supervision. In particular, the chair is expected to visit Tübingen on a regular basis.

What AIMS RIC offers

• The position provides competitive salary and administrative support, as well as financial support to attend and organize scientific events, to hire a postdoctoral fellow and PhD students and to cover other expenses related to leading a research group at AIMS.

• The appointment will be for a period of six years with the possibility of extension, subject to performance and funding availability.

• The incumbent may be promoted to a (Senior) Research Chair after three years, subject to performance.

• Participation in the Cluster of Excellence “Machine Learning – New Perspectives for Science” at the University of Tübingen, Germany.

• Mentorship for the AIMS-Tübingen Junior Research Chair in Machine Learning for Science

Eligibility

AIMS RIC welcomes applications from talented scientists with the following background:

• Received a PhD in machine learning, mathematics, computer science, physics, or related fields from an internationally recognized program not more than five years before appointment date

• Research expertise in Machine Learning for science.

• Strong publication record in international, peer-reviewed journals and tier-1 conferences

• Evidence of academic maturity and independence in planning research activities

• Interest in capacity development of young African scientists

• Ability to bridge theory and applications and an interest in interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Has an exciting and innovative research plan with original ideas

How to apply

To apply, please visit here by 31st August 2025, 23:59 CAT. Please prepare the following documents before starting your application:

1. Motivation letter,

2. Research statement (about 4 pages including references, outlining past research results, future research plans, and required research infrastructure),

3. CV including three referees (their names, email addresses, phone numbers) and details about the candidate’s PhD and a publication list. Referees will be contacted (within seven days after the deadline of this call) to send confidential letters of support on your behalf.

When filling in the online application form, please observe the guidelines for completing the application and the information on required documents. For further information and advice important for your application, you can contact applications@aimsric.org and make sure your email subject title is Inquiry About Application for AIMS - Tübingen Junior Research Chair in Machine Learning for Science.

*** Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Summary of the selection process

An independent Selection Committee that includes representatives of AIMS and the University of Tübingen will select the appointee to the Junior Research Chair based on an independent peer review. In a pre-selection process, suitable candidates will be determined who will be invited to Rwanda to present their work. Applicants will receive feedback immediately after the Selection Committee has made its choice.