open positions

I am actively looking for motivated candidates to join my research group at ELLIS Institute Finland and Tampere University for Fall 2026 / Spring 2027. We build the next generation of reliable and trustworthy machine learning systems. Our group focuses on multimodal learning, generative AI, and vision-language models, with a specific emphasis on how foundation models and agentic systems can safely adapt and generalize to new environments. Our ultimate goal is to enable the safe and reliable deployment of intelligent systems across critical domains, including robotics, autonomous driving, healthcare, and industrial monitoring.

PhD Positions

I am recruiting 2-3 PhD students with a strong background in machine learning, computer vision, or related areas. Ideal candidates should have:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field
• Strong programming skills, particularly in Python and PyTorch, with hands-on experience in deep learning
• A good command of English (written and spoken, at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)
• Motivation for independent research and publishing at top venues

The positions are typically 4 years in duration and are fully funded, with a starting salary of approximately €3,000+ per month, along with comprehensive benefits in accordance with Tampere University policies and the Finnish social security system. Eligible group members can later be nominated as official ELLIS PhDs. I’m also recruiting PhD students through the ELLIS PhD Program.

Postdoctoral Positions

I am also open to hosting 1-2 postdoctoral researchers. Candidates with expertise in multimodal learning, foundation models, generative AI, or related areas are especially encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should have:

• A PhD degree in Computer Science or a related field
• A strong publication record at top-tier conferences and journals
• A good command of English (written and spoken, )

The positions are available for up to 3 years, with a starting salary of approximately €4,000+ per month, along with comprehensive benefits in accordance with Tampere University policies and the Finnish social security system. Eligible group members can later be nominated as official ELLIS Postdocs.

Research Interns / Visiting Students / Thesis Students / Collaborators

Applications are open year-round. I welcome motivated students and collaborators for opportunities lasting more than 3 months, either on-site or remote. Possible formats include research internships, thesis supervision (Bachelor’s or Master’s), visiting students, and research collaborations. Paid positions are not our priority and can be highly selective.

What We Offer

• Opportunities for Growth: Members tackle interdisciplinary challenges spanning robotics, healthcare, and industrial monitoring, gaining hands-on experience with large-scale foundation models and infrastructure. The skills and scientific mindset cultivated here lay the groundwork for high-impact careers in academia, industry, and beyond.
• Dedicated Mentorship: I provide hands-on guidance while deeply respecting your creative vision. My ultimate goal is to empower you to become an independent researcher, innovator, and problem-solver. I measure my success entirely by the success of my students, many of whom have consistently published in top-tier venues.
• World-Class Computing Resources: Benefit from cutting-edge computational infrastructure through the ELLIS Institute Finland (featuring exclusive access to over 100 H200 GPUs), Tampere University, and Finland’s renowned EuroHPC/LUMI supercomputer. You will have the resources necessary to execute multi-node training at scale using hundreds of GPUs.
• Global Collaboration and Networking: Leveraging active research collaborations across Europe, Asia, and the US, I connect lab members with a worldwide network of top-tier academic institutions and the broader ELLIS community. We actively support international conference attendance and academic exchange programs to help you build your global footprint.

How to Apply

Please send a single PDF to mintlab.application@outlook.com using the subject line “[Role] - [Your Name] - [Starting]” (e.g. “PhD - H Dong - Fall26”) with:

1. Your CV and transcript
2. A brief statement (1-2 paragraphs) explaining your research interests and why you want to join our group
3. Optional supporting documents (e.g. publications, code, degree proofs)
4. Names and contact details of 2-3 referees (to be contacted only at the pre-offer stage)

Short note: I carefully review every email, but I may not always be able to respond immediately. Please note that this does not reflect on your qualifications or potential. Doctoral and postdoctoral applications are reviewed in batches, so the evaluation process may take some time. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Research internship applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. If you do not hear back within two weeks, please assume I am unable to proceed at this time, though you are welcome to follow up in case your message was missed.

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