Postdoc in interacting particle methods for Bayesian inversion with model error

NUMA is a research section within the Department of Computer Science of KU Leuven, with 12 permanent staff members and approximately 60 PhD and postdoctoral researchers. NUMA (Numerical Analysis and Applied Mathematics) develops numerical algorithms and software for large-scale problems in science and engineering. Its research ranges from algorithm design and analysis to software implementation and applications in other scientific and engineering domains.
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Responsibilities

To reliably use simulation-generated predictions in science and engineering, one needs trustworthy mathematical models that are calibrated to measurement data. We are motivated by applications in engineering in which the system models are partial differential equations (PDEs) with potentially infinite-dimensional (e.g., space-dependent) parameters and state variables. Inferring these parameters and/or states from large amounts of possibly high-resolution data leads to computationally intensive inverse problems. The team aims at developing Bayesian computational methods for such (ill-posed) inverse problems and aims both at increasing their validity and at reducing their computational cost.

The research will be carried out in an international team of numerical analysts at NUMA. While the envisaged work is generic (not tied to a specific application), the project will benefit from a long-standing and fruitful collaboration with the Department of Cardiovascular Imaging and Dynamics, in which the work will be applied in the context of cardiac excitation simulations.

Profile

• Candidates must hold a PhD in Mathematical Engineering or Applied Mathematics (or equivalent)
• Candidates should have a solid background in numerical methods for differential equations, simulation of stochastic processes and/or optimization.
• Specific experience with sampling methods for Bayesian is highly appreciated. Experience with cardiac electrophysiological modeling is a plus.
• Candidates should have experience with programming of scientific software.
• Excellent proficiency in English is required, as well as good communication skills, both oral and written.

Offer

• A high-level and exciting international research environment.
• A supportive and collaborative team in which you can develop know-how and expertise in state-of-the-art simulation methods.
• The opportunity to build up research and innovation skills that are essential for a future career in research and development, both in an industrial and academic context.
• Funding is secured for two years, with an optional third year depending on the available funding and scientific progress and ambitions.
• A competitive salary.

Interested?

Submit your application, including

1) a letter of motivation with a statement of skills and research interests,
2) a curriculum vitae,
3) university diploma copies and transcripts, and
4) names and contact information of 1-2 references that can be contacted about your application.

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