Creating a software framework for the design, development, and implementation of runtime-adaptive and secure Deep Learning applications on heterogeneous low-energy embedded platforms.

The PhD candidate will perform research and development activities within the EU Horizon 2020 project called ALOHA. This project aims at creating a software framework for the design, development, and implementation of runtime-adaptive and secure Deep Learning applications on heterogeneous low-energy embedded platforms. To this aim, the PhD candidate will contribute to the research and development of software tools, automating the:
• Modeling and performance/energy/accuracy analysis of Deep Learning applications;
• Optimized mapping and scheduling of the inference phase of Deep Learning applications onto heterogeneous embedded architectures.

During the research and development of the ALOHA software framework, several main features will be addressed, such as architecture-awareness (the features of the embedded architectures will be considered starting from the deep learning algorithm design), adaptivity, security, productivity, and extensibility.

Selection Criteria
• You should be a very motivated university graduate who is a top performer among your peers, has an excellent education and/or research track record proven by relevant experience, publications, etc.;
• You are expected to conduct original competitive scientific research, publishing the results in top conferences and scientific journals, and participating in teaching duties;
• A university degree (MSc), preferably in Computer Science or Computer (Electrical) Engineering;
• Be excellent in spoken and written English;
• Have excellent programming skills, e.g., in C/C++, Java, and/or Python;
• Be familiar with Deep Learning techniques (Convolutional Neural Networks) and Embedded Systems and Software.

Applications
To apply for this vacancy, please send no later than 1 October 2017 an email to Dr. Todor Stefanov at [Email Address Removed]. Please ensure that you attach the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:
• A CV;
• A Letter of Motivation;
• A MSc diploma with transcripts (courses + grades);
• A (link to a draft of) Master’s thesis, and other publications;
• Two to three references (who agreed to support the applicant).

Research at our Faculty/Institute
The Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) is the Computer Science Institute in the Faculty of Science of Leiden University. According to our recent research visitation, we are one of the foremost computer science departments of The Netherlands. We strive for excellence in a caring institute, where excellence, fun, and diversity go hand in hand. We offer a clear and inviting career path to young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow. For more information about LIACS, see https://liacs.leidenuniv.nl/ .