Group Leaders in AI applied to Industry and Societal Challenges (Cross Research Group Leaders) F/M

About Idiap

Idiap is an independent, not-for-profit, research institute recognized and funded by the Swiss Federal Government, the State of Valais, and the City of Martigny, and is academically affiliated with EPFL and University of Geneva.

Idiap offers competitive salaries and conditions at all levels in a young, high-quality, dynamic, and multicultural environment. Idiap is an equal opportunity employer and is actively involved in the "Advancement of Women in Science" European initiative. The Institute seeks to maintain a principle of open competition (on the basis of merit) to appoint the best candidate, provides equal opportunity for all candidates, and equally encourage both genders to apply. Employment at Idiap is thus based solely on a person's merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. Idiap does not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, marital status, pregnancy, or any other basis protected by law.

Idiap is located in the town of Martigny in Valais, a scenic region in the south of Switzerland, surrounded by the highest mountains of Europe, and offering exceptional quality of life, exciting recreational activities, including hiking, climbing and skiing, as well as varied cultural activities. It is within close proximity to Lausanne and Geneva. Although Idiap is located in the French part of Switzerland, English is the official working language. Free French lessons are also provided on a complimentary basis.

For frequently asked questions (FAQs) about living in Switzerland, please go to https://www.idiap.ch/en/faq

Job description

Idiap is looking for independent researchers in artificial intelligence to lead research groups with primary missions:

a. to lead innovative cross-disciplinary research projects in their areas of expertise, in collaboration with research groups currently established at Idiap;

b. to initiate and support research projects in collaboration with local and international industrial partners.

Priority will be given to researchers who intend to address timely industrial and societal challenges. Areas of particular interest to Idiap include:

1. Climate and Environment
2. Energy
3. Health & Health Care
4. Security & Safety
5. Smart Cities
6. Manufacturing
7. Integration of complex AI systems

Successful candidates should be able to demonstrate both independence in research and the ability to lead interdisciplinary collaborations through funded research grants and publications. They will be expected to supervise PhD students in areas of science and engineering. Given the links between Idiap and our academic partners, academic affiliations can be considered.

Idiap is a vibrant research institute active in a broad range of AI-related domains. It is at the core of a strong and well-established innovation network, including start-ups and industrial partners. Idiap is home to a diverse and multi-national staff and is ideally located within the scenic environment of the Swiss Alps.

Applications should be submitted in electronic form exclusively through Idiap's Online Recruitment System. Interested individuals should include their full CV, together with (1) a list of publications and funding record (2) a concise (max 2 pages) statement of medium-to-long-term research vision, and (3) the names and addresses, with e-mail, of three referees. Applications missing any of the above items will automatically be rejected.

Although the positions are available immediately, screening and selection will start on March 1, 2022 and will continue until the positions have been filled.

Sought profile

All applicants must have a PhD degree in engineering, physics, computer science, or applied mathematics. They should also demonstrate excellent research experience in their field, and strong publication record. Successful candidates should be able to demonstrate independence in research and provide evidence that they have developed their own body of high-quality work, funded through successful research grants.

The successful candidate is expected to initiate independent, creative research programs at the Idiap Research Institute. Given the links between Idiap and our academic partners, academic affiliations can be considered.

Required languages

• English - Level advanced
• French - Level beginner

Réf: 12cd8b2e-b385-47fc-c2fd-08d9c3a258b8