I am hiring a postdoc to work on new robust foundations of machine learning, where I think random sets and imprecise probabilities can play an important role.

Will you please put me in contact with strong candidates? This is going to be very foundational.

All the best,

Fabio

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Statistical Machine Learning

Oxford Brookes University��- Dept Of Computing & Communication

Location: Wheatley Campus, Oxford
For more information: hr-hrteam-edi@brookes.ac.uk

This ia a fixed term position Initially for 1 year, renewable for a further 2 years subject to funding

The Department of Computing and Communication Technologies is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Statistical Machine Learning in the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, in order to kick-start a new research project on novel robust foundations for machine learning.

Machine learning algorithms typically focus on fitting a model to the available training data (overfitting), which may lead, for instance, an autonomous driving system to perform well on validation tests but fail catastrophically when tested in the real world (as it has unfortunately been demonstrated of late). Common practice in the field contemplates generalisation criteria which are based on a rather na��ve correlation between smoothness and generality.��

With the deployment of machine learning algorithms in critical AI systems, however, it is crucial to ensure that these algorithms behave predictably in the wild. This raises issues with Vapnik's traditional Statistical Learning Theory as a viable foundation for robust machine learning. The remarkable empirical performance achieved so far by deep learning-based approaches, on the other hand, is yet to be matched by a satisfactory understanding of the theoretical basis for their robust behaviour.

The successful candidate will take the leadership of a new research programme designed at laying the groundwork for a new, robust paradigm for the foundations of machine learning. A number of research avenues can be envisaged. Worst-case, cautious predictions may be generated by solving appropriate mini-max optimisation problems. Robust analyses based on convex sets of models (e.g. convex sets of linear boundaries) appear promising. Finally, robust Bayesian analysis and random set theory may provide the means for a generalisation of the concept of Probably Approximately Correct in statistical learning theory.

Candidates should have a PhD or other Postgraduate qualification or be studying for PhD in a relevant subject and have significant experience in machine learning, statistics or both.��
The successful candidate will join a vibrant and ambitious department that is welcoming, supportive and friendly. The department blends excellence in teaching and knowledge transfer with world-leading research in areas that span Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Cognitive Robotics, Augmented Reality, Wireless Communications and Human Machine Interfaces.

You will be responsible for:

The leadership of a new research programme on robust statistical machine learning
The implementation and the day-to-day running of other research projects within the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory
Assisting with the preparation of papers for publication and making presentations at meetings and/or conferences
Assisting in the preparation of applications for external funding
Mentoring and supporting other researchers (e.g. PhD and MSc students or visitors) in the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory

You should have:

A PhD or other Postgraduate qualification or be studying for PhD in a relevant subject
A strong mathematical background
Significant experience in machine learning, statistics or both
Experience of working to strict deadlines in a high performing team
High level of analytical ability and computational skills, including programming
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects

International applicants from outside the EU will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Fabio Cuzzolin

fabio.cuzzolin@brookes.ac.uk

To apply, click the Apply button you will find at the bottom of this page:

http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/AVB596/postdoctoral-research-assistant-in-robotic-systems/