PhD studentship (3.5 years fully funded) in the topic of machine learning theory at University of Warwick

We are seeking a PhD candidate in machine learning (ML) theory as well as theoretical-oriented topics. The project aims to theoretically understand why ML models perform well and/or design efficient training algorithms. The topics include but not limited to

1. Generalization guarantees of over-parameterized ML models

2. Robustness of neural networks for trustworthy ML systems

The successful candidate is expected to have a solid background in applied mathematics/statistics/computer science or related discipline. Advanced coding skills are a big plus.

For further details please contact Dr. Fanghui Liu (fanghui.liu@warwick.ac.uk), an assistant professor at University of Warwick. More information can be found on his homepage (www.lfhsgre.org).

I’m looking for a motivated research student for 2024 interested in machine learning theory, especially in statistical learning theory and deep learning theory. Currently I’m interested in the following topics:

1. Generalization guarantees of over-parameterized models: It delves into a pivotal question within the machine learning community: how can we theoretically explain the empirical phenomena observed in over-parameterized models, where the number of parameters exceeds the training data size? Our target is to bridge the gap between empirical observations and rigorous theoretical assurances, particularly in the context of neural networks.

2. Robustness of neural networks for trustworthy ML systems: It aims to build a trustworthy ML system from the theoretical and/or empirical side. Theoretically, we aim to understand the robust-accuracy trade-off. Empirically, efficient training algorithms are designed for the improvement of robustness.

I also work on kernel methods and some theoretical-oriented application topics, e.g., neural architecture search, distribution shift. If you’re interested in, feel free to reach out.

The successful candidate is expected to have a solid background in applied mathematics/statistics/computer science or related discipline. Advanced coding skills are a big plus.

Applicants must meet the University of Warwick minimum entry requirements for the MPhil/PhD course in Computer Science (warwick.ac.uk). Applicants must have a good degree equivalent to UK 2.1 level. Funding is for a Home student but International students may be considered and will also need English Proficiency level of IELTS 6.5 overall, with all components at 6.0.and ATAS clearance

For more information on the official application process, including stipends and fees, see https://warwick.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/courses/compsciencephd

About Warwick: The University of Warwick has one of the leading Computer Science departments in the UK (ranked 4th UK computer science department in the 2021 research excellence framework). The department, particularly well-known for its research in theoretical computer science, consistently produces top quality research and has strong links with research from the Warwick Mathematics Institute. (The Department of Computer Science and the Mathematics Institute are adjacent and physically connected, which offers a unique environment for research on the mathematical aspects of computer science among the top theory groups in the UK.) .