The University of Twente is pleased to announce two fully funded PhD Positions in Data-Efficient Foundation Models for Vision. These positions offer an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in data-efficient and robust vision foundation models.

Eligibility for these PhD positions requires applicants to hold or be close to completing a relevant master’s degree in fields such as Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, or Machine Learning. Candidates should have strong skills in machine learning, computer vision, mathematics, and programming, along with good analytical and communication abilities.

Application Deadline: 6 January 2026

Brief Description

• University or Organization: University of Twente
• Department: Data Management and Biometrics (DMB) Group
• Course Level: PhD
• Award: Monthly salary (€3,059–€3,881), benefits, travel budget, training programme
• Access Mode: Online application
• Number of Awards: 2
• Nationality: International and domestic applicants
• The award can be taken in: the Netherlands

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for PhD research in Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data-Efficient Foundation Models, and other related areas within the Data Management and Biometrics group.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
  • Hold or be close to completing a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or Computer Vision.
  • Have a strong background in machine learning and computer vision, with excellent programming skills.
  • Demonstrate solid mathematical understanding and creative research ability.
  • Show strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Be proficient in English (IELTS ? 6.5, TOEFL iBT ? 90, or Cambridge CAE/CPE).
  • Previous publications in top-tier venues (CVPR, ICCV, ECCV, ICLR) are appreciated.
  • Motivation to apply for PhD Position 1 (Compositional Learning), PhD Position 2 (Self-supervised Learning with Priors), or both.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their application online via the “Apply now” button before 7 January 2026.
The application must include:
• Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages), including publications and contact details of two references
• Cover letter (max 1 page) explaining motivation, suitability, and preferred PhD position(s)
• Academic transcripts listing all courses and grades
• Valid English language test score (if applicable)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in early February 2026.

Benefits

• Fully funded 4-year PhD contract
• Salary from €3,059 to €3,881 per month
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus
• Participation in the Twente Graduate School training programme
• Travel budget for conferences and research events
• Minimum 232 leave hours per year + additional hours for 40-hour working weeks
• Flexible working arrangements, including partial remote work
• Free access to sports facilities on campus
• Supportive, family-friendly work environment with parental leave options
• Opportunity to work with leading researchers within an international, interdisciplinary environment.

Apply Now