PhD Candidate in Image Processing and Visual AI

Mid Sweden University, in collaboration with Tampere University, is seeking a talented and motivated candidate with a strong background in image processing, computer vision, optimization, machine and deep learning, as well as applied mathematics, to implement innovative visual AI and develop the next generation of image technology for registration, processing, and rendering of images.

The PhD position is part of the international graduate school IRS TransTech, where you will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading international universities and Swedish companies. The graduate school focuses on transformative technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced materials, aiming to drive sustainable industrial development and strengthen international research and business networks.

The research for this position will be conducted in collaboration between the Realistic 3D research group at the STC research center, Mid Sweden University (https://www.miun.se/en/research/researchgroups/realistic-3d/) and the 3D Media Group at Tampere University, Finland (https://research.tuni.fi/3dmedia/). The research will investigate and design architectures for neural networks to solve image-based problems where domain knowledge and specific image technology are considered. This PhD position will lead to a double doctorate from the two universities.

Responsibilities

Independent doctoral training including 100% research. The doctoral education includes both courses and research work.

Eligibility

The basic eligibility is met by those who have completed a degree at the advanced level or have completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at the advanced level or in some other way acquired equivalent knowledge within or outside the country. Specific eligibility is met by those who have at least 90 higher education credits in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Applied Mathematics, or in some other way acquired equivalent knowledge within or outside the country.

Assessment Criteria

The candidate is expected to have demonstrated expertise in image processing, computer/machine vision, machine and deep learning, and optimization algorithms; very good mathematical knowledge and skills; very good programming skills in e.g. Python / PyTorch / Tensorflow etc.; and excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Previous experience in the following areas is meritorious: immersive media such as augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR), inverse problems and related algorithms, as well as high-performance computing and parallel processing on GPUs.

Personal Qualities

Personal qualities required for the position include analytical, systematic, communicative, as well as the ability to work independently and in teams. These qualities are important for succeeding in doctoral training. Additional desirable qualities are curiosity, creative thinking, taking initiative, and being goal-oriented.

Other Assessment Criteria

Other assessment criteria include published scientific articles, larger software projects, and other activities relevant to the position.

Processing

The preparation of the employment follows the forms specified in Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance and proceeds in accordance with here (https://www.miun.se/medarbetare/styrdokument/ny-styrning-planering-och-uppfoljning/Personal/Anstalla-personal/?item=311447).

Employment and Start Date

The PhD position corresponds to an employment that equates to four years of full-time studies and is expected to lead to a doctorate. Start date 2026-03-01 or by agreement.

A new employment as a PhD student is valid for a maximum of one year, after which the employment may be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time. Regulations regarding employment as a PhD student can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7.

Employment benefits include parental leave supplement, wellness programs, healthcare and medication, occupational pension, and insurance.

Vacation: 28 paid days per year, which increases with age.

Location

Sundsvall, Sweden (years 1-2), Tampere, Finland (years 3-4)

Salary

According to here (https://www.miun.se/medarbetare/anstalld/Lonesattning/Doktorander/): 33,900 SEK (before tax) year 1, increases with progression in studies.

Information

For more information, please contact Head of Department Docent Patrik Österberg, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), or Research Leader Prof Mårten Sjöström, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), Prof Atanas Gotchev, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Application

Documents to be attached to the application:

• motivation letter (max 1 page)
• Verified CV, including a publication list
• copies of official transcripts and degree certificates (MSc+BSc), and their English translations (Swedish certificates accepted), and diploma supplements
• link to Master’s thesis
• contact details for two referees
• other documents the applicant wishes to refer to.

Application documents should be submitted in English.

Welcome with your application via our recruitment system by 2026-02-18.

Mid Sweden University, with campuses in both Sundsvall and Östersund, is an institution close to students, colleagues, and the surrounding community. At the same time, we are located next to the sea, forests, and mountains, which creates conditions for fantastic quality of life. New knowledge is created here through internationally successful research and education that contributes to societal development. In this way, we contribute to a sustainable future and a better world.

As an employee at Mid Sweden University, you should be able to combine work with leisure and have a good balance in life. We offer, among other things, flexible working hours, support for wellness activities, salary supplements during parental leave and illness. You also receive generous vacation days.

Mid Sweden University actively works for equal opportunities and strives to take advantage of the qualities that diversity and gender equality bring to the organization. Your personal data is processed and stored in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation. We welcome inquiries from those interested in working with us but decline offers from those selling advertising and recruitment services.