PostDoc in Machine Learning and Statistics

Offer Description Organisation/Company: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) Research Field: Mathematics – Statistics Title: Researcher – Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline: 19 Apr 2026 – 21:59 UTC Country: Netherlands Type of Contract: Temporary Hours Per Week: 36.0 We are looking for a PostDoc who will conduct research on the intersection of machine learning (ML) and statistics. The focus will be on enriching statistical methods through advanced machine learning techniques, for instance by learning latent representations of the data. In addition to predictive modeling scenarios, causal modeling is also within the scope of the position. The position is embedded in the ten‑year gravitation grant Stress in Action, funded through NWO (Dutch National Science Foundation). The goal of the project is to move stress research from the lab into daily life, so the methodological innovations will target stress‑related data such as wearables, ecological momentary assessments, and questionnaires. Partners include Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Erasmus MC, University of Twente, University of Groningen, UMC Groningen, and Utrecht University. The role is part of the Quantitative Data Analytics (QDA) group at VU, in close collaboration with Erasmus MC and the University of Groningen. The QDA group focuses on both fundamental and application‑driven research in ML. Your duties

• Perform research in machine learning and publish results in top ML conferences
• Participate in the QDA group of VU (led by Mark Hoogendoorn), the Biostatistics group of Erasmus MC (led by Dimitris Rizopoulos), and Laura Bringmann’s intensive longitudinal data lab at the University of Groningen
• Contribute to the Stress in Action project and liaise with partners and stakeholders
• Engage in teaching activities and supervise Bachelor and Master students (20 % of the time)

Selection criteria

• A PhD degree in an area relevant to machine learning and/or statistics
• Prior experience in machine learning and/or statistics, preferably with health‑domain applications, and a record of relevant publications
• A strong record of computer programming, with experience in PyTorch and/or TensorFlow
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in a team

The role requires a flexible working approach, with active involvement at multiple locations across Amsterdam, Groningen, and the broader Randstad region. As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset. Additional Information A challenging and impactful postdoctoral position within a high‑profile national and international research program that bridges academia and industry. The position, with a total duration of 3 years, is embedded in a vibrant and international research environment at VU Amsterdam for 1.5 years, followed by an appointment at the University of Groningen for a maximum duration of 1.5 years. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. In return for your efforts, we offer you:

• Salary: €3 546,00–€5 538,00 gross per month (Scale 10), dependent on education and experience
• Position for at least 0.8 FTE
• Initial employment contract at VU Amsterdam lasting 1.5 years, followed by an appointment at the University of Groningen for another 1.5 years, contingent on a successful evaluation

Additional fringe benefits and regulations include:

• A full‑time 38‑hour working week provides 232 hours of holiday leave per year; choosing a 40‑hour week yields 96 extra holiday leave hours annually; part‑time benefits are pro‑rata
• 8 % holiday allowance and 8.3 % end‑of‑year bonus
• Contribution to commuting expenses
• Optional model for designing a personalized benefits package

Additional comments Are you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? If so, we encourage you to submit your application. Submitting a diploma is part of the application process. Applications received by e‑mail will not be considered. Apply tot his job Apply To this Job