In the Combinatorial Optimization group at Eindhoven University of
Technology (The Netherlands), there is a vacancy for a 3-year postdoc
position within the NWO/DFG project "SymBi: Exploiting Symmetries for
Faster Bilevel Optimization Algorithms". This postdoc position is
supervised by Christopher Hojny.
The vacancy can be found at
https://www.tue.nl/en/working-at-tue/vacancy-overview/postdoc-in-symmetry-handling-in-bilevel-programming
The vacancy remains open until a suitable candidate has been found and
closes definitively on March 6, 2026.
Starting date: preferably June 1, 2026
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Bilevel programming (BP) is a powerful mathematical framework for
modeling hierarchical decision-making processes involving two players: a
leader and a follower. In energy network design, for example, the leader
aims to build a robust network that mitigates failures caused by the
follower’s actions. A key characteristic of such applications is the
presence of symmetries. For instance, a symmetric network naturally
leads to symmetric failure scenarios, which are reflected in BP models.
However, current BP software can neither detect nor exploit these
symmetries. As a result, despite BP’s strong modeling capabilities,
existing technology can only handle relatively small-scale problems.
In the SymBi project (Exploiting Symmetries for Faster Bilevel
Optimization Algorithms), we address this limitation by developing a
general mathematical theory of symmetries in BP and efficient algorithms
for symmetry detection and exploitation. While the related field of
mixed-integer programming (MIP) primarily uses symmetries to eliminate
redundant parts of the solution space, SymBi goes further: it aims to
enhance other components of BP solvers, such as cutting planes, to
achieve a stronger coupling between leader and follower decisions.
The research activities of the postdoc will include
- defining a mathematically sound notion of symmetries for bilevel
optimization problems,
- developing a novel theory for exploiting symmetries that is tailored
for bilevel optimization problems, and
- implementing and testing the developed algorithms for solving
benchmark problems.
Next to the research tasks, the postdoc will be asked to assist, for a
small percentage of their time, with educational tasks (course support
and supervision of students).
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- You are a motivated researcher, with a PhD in integer programming,
bilevel programming, mathematical optimization, or a comparable domain.
- You have very good programming skills, preferably in C/C++.
- You are able to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in
demonstrable outputs.
- You have a proven ability to manage complex projects to completion on
schedule.
- You have excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English, good
communication skills (knowledge of the Dutch language is not required).
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
We offer a meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an
interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will
work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central
train station. In addition, we offer you:
- Full-time employment for 3 years. Please note that for a postdoc
position, our departmental policy is that we offer a one-year contract
first, which is extended based on good performance.
- Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch
Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,241 max. € 5,538).
- A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
- High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics
related to research and valorization.
- An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care
and sports facilities.
- Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working
from home and internet costs.
- A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and
broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support,
training and workshops.
- A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as
are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for
moving expenses.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information about the project or about the working conditions,
please contact Christopher Hojny (c.hojny@tue.nl).
HOW TO APPLY
Applications should be done through the following website:
https://www.tue.nl/en/working-at-tue/vacancy-overview/postdoc-in-symmetry-handling-in-bilevel-programming
Besides personal and contact information, you should upload the
following documents as PDFs:
- Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications
for the position.
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the
contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach
out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend
notifying your references upon submitting your application.
- List of up to five self-selected ‘best publications’.
Do not upload any other documents.