Phd In Algorithms And Complexity For Discrete Optimization Problems

As one of the largest and most dynamic academic communities in the Netherlands, the department Mathematics and Computer Science (M&CS) brings together more than 140 scientific staff, over 250 PhD and EngD candidates, and nearly 3000 students. We collaborate closely with leading industrial partners in the Brainport Eindhoven region and with universities across the globe—creating a uniquely fertile environment for both fundamental breakthroughs and applied innovation.

Introduction

This project focuses on investigating theoretical properties and the computational hardness of discrete optimization problems, with a focus on structured cases in problems from operations research such as scheduling and integer programming. While many of these problems are classically NP-hard, specific formulations often have exploitable structures that enable efficient solution methods. This research aims to identify such tractable structures, develop corresponding algorithms, and sharpen the boundaries between polynomial-time solvability and inherent hardness.

Beyond theoretical insights, the project seeks to translate these advances into practical algorithmic frameworks for combinatorial optimization. Improvements in solving structured discrete optimization models have wide-ranging implications across applications including supply chain management, resource allocation, fair division and voting rules, among others.

Job Description

You will work under the supervision of Alexandra Lassota and Frits Spieksma in the Combinatorial Optimization group (link) within the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at TU/e. Your responsibilities include to perform scientific research on the topic of the above-mentioned project, and to publish and present your results at international venues. For a small percentage of your time, you will be asked to assist with educational tasks (course support and supervision of students).

Job Requirements

• You have a bachelor and master degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or Econometrics.
• You have a strong background in Combinatorics and Complexity Theory.
• You have good communication skills and like occasional travels.
• You are creative, ambitious, as well as self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented.
You have a good command of the English language (knowledge of Dutch is not required).

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact Alexandra Lassota (a.a.lassota@tue.nl) or Frits Spieksma (f.c.r.spieksma@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HRServices.mcs@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of two references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• BSc and MSc transcripts

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.