Doctoral Candidate to develop Generative, Explainee-Aware Explainability methods for Proactivity Learning

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university offering innovative academic education to more than 20,000 students and conducting pioneering scientific research. Within the Faculty of Science, the IDLab research group is seeking a full-time doctoral scholarship holder in Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Physical Systems, with a strong emphasis on Explainable AI (XAI), as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network on "Generative Explainee-aware Explainability and Transparency in Proactive Cyber-Physical Eco-Environments (GREET)".

Position

GREET pioneers proactive, trustworthy, and fully explainable Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) using Generative Learning Cognitive Services (GLCS). These systems combine generative eco-cognition, cognition-oriented proactivity learning, and explainee-aware explainability. Applications include smart manufacturing, assistive robotics, energy systems, and networking.

• Work on a PhD thesis in AI and CPS, focusing on explainable AI to make proactive decision-making transparent and understandable.
• Investigate requirements for virtual explainability twins through secondments at TQC Ltd, UK (three months) and IRIS Technology, Spain (four months).
• Collaborate with doctoral researchers, industry partners, and the IDLab team; gain hands-on experience through secondments.
• Publish scientific articles and present at conferences.
• Carry out limited teaching and research support tasks.

Profile

• Must be a doctoral candidate without a Doctoral degree at recruitment.
• Hold a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related field by start date.
• Must not have resided or worked in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment.
• Demonstrate excellent study results and align with the university’s educational and research policies.
• Fluent in English and enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research.

Required Skills & Expertise

• Strong background in AI/ML, explainable AI, interactive explanations, and human-in-the-loop systems.
• Experience in Human-Computer Interaction, user interface design, or data visualization.
• Familiarity with frameworks like SHAP, LIME, Captum, Alibi.
• Skills in designing context-aware explanations and programming in Python, JavaScript, or web frameworks.
• Interest in CPS, eco-cognition, and mathematical optimization.
• Background in mobile and satellite networks is appreciated.

What We Offer

A competitive remuneration based on MSCA allowances, employment for 36 months with possible extension, starting February 2026. Includes ecocheques, Internet allowance, and bicycle or public transport reimbursement. Work at the Beacon in a dynamic environment.

Want to Apply?

Apply through the University of Antwerp’s online platform by November 12, 2025, including motivation letter, CV, transcripts, reference letters, English proficiency certificate, and a short research proposal.