Research Positions in Algorithms and Networks

Applications are invited for two research positions at the School of Computer Science (SCS), Reykjavik University, funded by a grant from the Icelandic Research Fund, under the direction of Prof. Magnus M. Halldorsson.  The positions can be either at any level: Ph.D. student, post-doctoral, or at faculty level.

Research projects
The research areas can generally be divided into three interrelated areas: algorithms for wireless networks; distributed graph algorithms; and approximation algorithms on graphs and networks.

We have spearheaded efforts to develop realistic algorithmic models of wireless communications and design and analyze algorithms in these models. This includes the SINR model, various extensions, and conflict graphs. A key focus of the current project is to explore temporal variability in wireless networks and models and ways to manage dynamic behavior. Concurrent with our theoretical work, we also have an installed 60 node testbed of programmable sensor nodes ready for experimentation.

Another focus is on distributed algorithms in more classical models, particularly on resource-allocation problems. Finally, we have a long-standing interest in approximate solutions of optimization problems. In addition to the study of approximability of centralized algorithms, we address also constrained settings, such as online algorithms, and streaming algorithms.

Research group

The core research group (see http://alnet.ru.is/) currently consists of two post-docs, a Ph.D. student, and the research director. We also have a more expanded research group, involving both experimental algorithms and wireless experimentation, including several full-time faculty members from the School of Computer Science and the School of Science and Engineering at Reykjavik University, along with several research students. We collaborate with various groups in Europe, N-America, and Asia, and organize an annual workshop (wrawn.ru.is).

Qualification requirements
Applicants should have a strong research profile (or potential) and a solid background in the analysis of algorithms. A general understanding of networking and/or distributed computing is expected. Self-motivation, open mind and team spirit are all helpful ingredients.

Application details

Applications should be submitted through our applications website: http://en.ru.is/the-university/open-positions/ and should include a curriculum vitae, including a list of publications, a brief statement outlining their suitability for the project and the names of three references ready to comment on your research potential. Ph.D. applicants should also include a transcript of their academic record. For informal inquires, write to Magnus M. Halldorsson, mmh@ru.is. The deadline is March 15, 2015.

Employment

The salary follows a rate set by Reykjavik University. Currently, it is 290.000 ISK per month for Ph.D. students and 400.000 ISK for post-docs. There is no teaching duty, but teaching opportunites exist for additional salary. Ph.D. positions are for three year; other positions are normally on a yearly basis and renewable for three years, dependent on funding. Start date is flexible.

For candidates with experience after receiving a Ph.D., it may be possible to secure a non-tenured limited-term faculty position at the School of Computer Science, at level commensure with experience.

About the School of Computer Science at Reykjavik University
The School of Computer Science at RU (http://en.ru.is/CS) has approximately 800 students at the undergraduate, masters and doctorate levels. The School is home to several strong research groups and the main research areas are algorithmics, artificial intelligence, combinatorics, concurrency theory, databases, human-computer interaction, natural language processing, engineering software systems, theoretical computer science and virtual environments. The school offers joint Ph.D. programs with KTH, Sweden, and Eindhoven University of Technology, Holland. For more information about Ph.D. studies see http://en.ru.is/departments/school-of-computer-science/ph.d-studies/.

The successful candidates will benefit from, and contribute to, the research environment at the Icelandic Centre of Excellence in Theoretical Computer Science (ICE-TCS). ICE-TCS has currently 14 permanent members, five postdoctoral researchers and four Ph.D. students.  For more information about ICE-TCS, its members and its activities, see http://www.icetcs.ru.is/.

About the surroundings

As a sparsely populated volcanic island in the midst of the N-Atlantic, Iceland offers unsurpassed opportunities for seeing nature at work, with its mix of glaciers, hot springs, lava fields and expanses of lunar-like landscape. Thanks to the Gulf stream, it has a surprisingly moderate climate. Reykjavik is an accessible city with a vibrant cultural scene that is seldom seen in cities of its size. Reykjavik University is located on the south shore of the city, next to a heated beach and a park, and on the outdoors trail stretching towards the mountains.