[Job-offers-cs] Tenure-track Assistant and Associate Professorship positions in Algorithms at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, SDU Vejle, Denmark

[Pekka Orponen]

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, SDU Vejle, Denmark, 
invites applications for Tenure-track Assistant and Associate 
Professorship positions in Algorithms. The preferred starting date is 
August 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter. Application deadline: 
24 March 2025 at 23:59 hours local Danish time.

The new campus in Vejle of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is 
set to become an international IT research and educational environment. 
The campus will consist of two research centers aiming to be world-class 
research environments in computer science, artificial intelligence, 
interactive technology, and software engineering. SDU Vejle is a 
collaboration between the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science 
and the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute at SDU. The campus will be 
based on the philosophy of these well-established research environments 
where curiosity, creativity, and innovation thrive. SDU Vejle will 
welcome its first students in 2026. By 2032, we aim for the Vejle campus 
to host over 1200 Danish and international students, employ more than 90 
academic staff members, and annually graduate 300 skilled and highly 
sought-after IT students. Learn more about the new campus in Vejle here: 
https://www.sdu.dk/en/vejle>
Hired candidates will join the Algorithms Section 
(https://algorithms.sdu.dk/ and the new SDU Center for Computer Science 
and Artificial Intelligence in Campus Vejle. More information about 
these environments and the hosting department and faculty is given in 
the next sections.

We encourage applications from researchers that can complement or 
strengthen the competences of the section. We are seeking candidates 
with a strong research record within efficient algorithms, broadly 
understood as spanning from algorithms engineering to complexity theory. 
Examples of interesting research areas include, but are not limited to, 
approximation algorithms, combinatorial optimization, cryptology, data 
structures, fine-grained complexity, and algorithmic research bridging 
to ML/AI.

The aim of the SDU Center for Computer Science and Artificial 
Intelligence is to be an interdisciplinary hub covering a wide range of 
core topics in computer science and artificial intelligence. Its 
academic focus is to conduct cutting-edge research on different 
dimensions of digital technology, ranging from the more technical 
(machine learning, cloud technology, hardware design) to the more 
theoretical (algorithms, programming languages, symbolic AI), but also 
including topics at the intersection of technology and society 
(cybersecurity, explainable AI, machine ethics). By promoting the 
interaction between theory and experiment and in close collaboration 
with local business and industry, the research environment in the center 
will be a key enabler and a cornerstone in the digital development of 
the local and national society.

The vision of the center is to:

* Create scientific breakthroughs and knowledge within the center's 
academic focus
* Educate highly sought-after computer scientists and AI specialists
* Establish valuable collaborations with local, national, and 
international industry

The mission of the center is to:

* Educate talented and highly competent computer scientists and AI 
specialists that not only meet the needs of industry but also enrich and 
enhance society.
* Provide access for the communities surrounding the center to the 
newest and most advanced knowledge and technologies available globally 
within the center's academic focus.
* Closely collaborate with industry on innovation, research, 
development, testing and deployment of new software and hardware-based 
technologies.
* Contribute to a human-centered digital transition, focusing on 
integrating digital and intelligent technologies into life and work 
while prioritizing the needs, experiences, and well-being of people.

Researchers at the SDU Center for Computer Science and Artificial 
Intelligence at SDU Vejle will:

* Help establish and be part of a world-class research center, driving 
innovation and attracting international talent.
* Contribute to the design and implementation of new international BSc 
and MSc programmes in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, 
teaching and mentoring the next generation of technology leaders.
* Contribute to a harmonious workplace environment that is conducive to 
productivity, promotes creativity, and rewards and recognizes 
individuals and group achievement.
* Develop partnerships with the dynamic industrial ecosystem in Vejle 
and the Triangle Region Denmark, translating research into real-world 
solutions.
* Foster strategic collaboration initiatives within SDU to drive 
interdisciplinary projects.

Successful candidates will have to fulfill the following key selection 
criteria:

Research:

* A promising research track record within the area of this call.

Successful candidates to the associate professorship positions should 
also have:

* An international research profile with a distinguished research record 
within the area of this call.
* Proven ability to attract third-party funding.
* Demonstrated success in building and leading dynamic research teams 
and a strong track record of developing and executing research and 
innovation will be a plus.

Teaching:

* Some teaching and supervision experience on BSc and MSc levels.

Successful candidates to the associate professorship positions should 
also have:

* Extensive teaching and supervision experience across BSc and MSc levels.

The capacity for innovative design, coordination and delivery of 
undergraduate and postgraduate subjects and create opportunities for 
students to be exposed to valuable industry experiences will be a plus 
as will experience of industry-engaged research within the area of the 
centre.

The tenure-track assistant professorship positions:

* For the tenure-track assistant professor positions, applications from 
promising early-career talents are highly encouraged. The Danish 
tenure-track employment is a focused assistant professorship with a 
guaranteed assessment for a position as tenured associate professor: 
before the end of the sixth year of employment and contingent on a 
positive academic assessment, the assistant professor will transit into 
a permanent (tenured) position as associate professor. A tenure-track 
assistant professor can request assessment for tenure earlier. If this 
assessment is negative, the assistant professor can request a second 
assessment within the final six months of employment.

Workplace description:

The Algorithms Section represents several directions within algorithms, 
while consisting of a group of people sharing common values and research 
traditions. The group fosters collaboration, excellence in research, and 
quality in education. We offer ample opportunities for collaboration, 
personal growth, and mentoring for starting independent research groups. 
The section is broadly interested in the design, analysis, and 
application of algorithms and has major impact in online and 
approximation algorithms, graph and parameterized algorithms, and 
algorithmic cheminformatics. Other strongly represented topics include 
data structures, string algorithms, digital privacy and cryptology, and 
combinatorial optimization in general. We encourage interested 
candidates to explore the section's website at 
https://algorithms.sdu.dk/ for more information.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (IMADA) is a thriving 
research hub at SDU's main campus in Odense, with approximately 800 
students and 200 staff, of which more than 60 are assistant, associate 
and full professors. Our research sections, in addition to the 
Algorithms section, include:

* Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Programming Languages, 
focusing on choreographic programming, distributed computing (cloud, 
edge, IoT, microservices), Dev(Sec)Ops, information security, formal 
methods (concurrency theory, theorem proving, type systems, etc.), logic 
and knowledge representation, optimization, and post-quantum and 
embedded cryptography.
* Data Science and Statistics, focusing on data science (data mining, 
data visualization, digital humanities), machine learning and artificial 
intelligence (deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement 
learning, multi-agent systems, MLOps, operations research), statistics 
(extreme value theory, Bayesian inference, multivariate analysis), and 
bioinformatics (biological networks, multi-omics data)

We also offer:

* World-class facilities: Access to state-of-the-art local 
High-Performance Computing through CPU and GPU clusters at the SDU 
eScience Centre, as well as to national and European systems.
* Strong industry links: Collaborations with local, national, and 
international industries, fostering impactful research and innovation.

In addition to the research sections mentioned above, the research 
environment at the department covers a wide area of topics in pure and 
applied mathematics and mathematical and IT didactics. Our department's 
vibrant and collaborative environment is underpinned by its commitment 
to research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community 
engagement.

The Faculty of Science is a leading hub for research and innovation, 
proudly hosting numerous prestigious ERC projects. It attracts and 
supports talented researchers who contribute to new knowledge and 
solutions for global challenges. With a focus on scientific excellence, 
the faculty fosters an inspiring environment for both established and 
emerging researchers passionate about making a difference.

The faculty is committed to academic excellence and student-centered 
learning. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, it promotes 
cutting-edge research addressing global issues. Modern facilities and 
state-of-the-art laboratories offer hands-on learning experiences. 
Strong industry ties ensure graduates are well-prepared for the job 
market. A supportive and inclusive environment encourages personal and 
academic growth. SDU's focus on sustainability and social responsibility 
enhances its reputation as a forward-thinking institution. With an 
international outlook and diverse community, it strives to be a top 
choice for students worldwide.

At the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), we break boundaries and 
shape the future amidst significant challenges like climate change, 
demographic shifts, pandemics, cyber threats, and a changing global 
economy. We believe world-class research, education, and partnerships 
are essential for solutions, as major societal issues are complex and 
multifaceted. To create lasting, positive change, we must apply new, 
interdisciplinary knowledge. Upholding academic freedom is crucial for 
our staff and students to innovate and share discoveries.

If you are interested in learning more about the position, please contact
* Martin Svensson (Head of Department) svensson at imada.sdu.dk
* Kim Skak Larsen (Head of Section, Algorithms) kslarsen at imada.sdu.dk

Application, salary etc.

Appointment to the position will be in accordance with the salary 
agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation 
of Professional Associations. Please check links for more information on 
salary (only available in Danish) and taxation.

https://sdunet.dk/en/servicesider/hr/ansaettelsesforhold/loen/loensatser>
https://www.sdu.dk/en/om-sdu/job-sdu/international-staff>
Applications will be assessed by an expert committee. When the expert 
committee issues its assessment, the applicants will be sent the portion 
of the assessment pertaining to them personally.

The application must include:

* A curriculum vitae
* A full list of publications
* Copy of PhD diploma
* Copies of all publications on which the applicant wishes to be evaluated
* A brief survey of the applicant's most important research results and 
research plans for the next three years
* A teaching portfolio (not applicable for the assistant professor position)

https://sdunet.dk/en/enheder/fakulteter/naturvidenskab/uddannelse-undervisning-eksamen/undervisningsportfolio>
Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline 
will neither be considered nor evaluated.

An interview may be included as a part of the overall assessment of the 
applicant's qualifications.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply 
now". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend 
that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Since not all members of the appointment committee are Danish-speaking, 
it is recommended that your application is submitted in English.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and 
thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of 
personal background.

Further information for international applicants about entering and 
working in Denmark.

Application link: 
https://fa-eosd-saasfaprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1001/requisitions/preview/2414/?lastSelectedFacet=LOCATIONS&selectedCategoriesFacet=300000002425904&selectedLocationsFacet=300000000392615&selectedOrganizationsFacet=300000002640685>
Or find the announcement via: https://www.sdu.dk/en/om-sdu/job-sdu>