Postdoctoral Researcher in AI, Learning, and Control for Sustainable Food Systems

Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan · Full-time

Brinellvägen 8, Stockholm, Sweden

Job Responsibilities Global food systems contribute to several major societal challenges today, including chronic diseases, greenhouse gas emissions, environmental degradation, and rising economic costs. New innovations in the food sector, combined with digitalization and automation, are transforming agricultural and food chains by affecting how we produce, process, package, supply, and distribute food. Simultaneously, dietary habits are a critical factor for human health and environmental sustainability. The transition to sustainable food systems requires addressing complex challenges within physical and communication infrastructure as well as individual behavior, social norms, and policy frameworks. We are seeking postdoctoral researchers with a strong background in and interest for network-based control systems, mathematics, machine learning, and applications in food systems. The project will focus on analysis and control of food systems, with research questions such as how AI-based methods can be used to (1) model and predict complex decision-making processes among interconnected actors in food systems, (2) capture the interplay between producers, consumers, decision-makers, and technology providers in evolving food ecosystems, and (3) design interventions that promote sustainable dietary habits, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen system resilience. The postdoctoral researchers' responsibilities include: Conduct innovative research within the postdoctoral position at KTH FOOD. Publish research results in high-quality scientific journals, including leading perspective articles on sustainability in food innovation, and present research at conferences. Initiate collaborations with other postdoctoral researchers at KTH FOOD and within relevant national and international networks in academia, industry, public sector, and non-profit organizations. Initiate and participate in applications for research funding within relevant national and international calls. Academic institutional work, including participation in meetings, seminars, and committees at KTH Food Centre and the department, as well as participation in knowledge dissemination and societal engagement activities. Collaboration with one of the other themes (Sustainable Food Production, Functional Foods and Health, Value Chains and Consumption, Circular Food Processes) is expected. Qualifications Requirements Completed doctoral degree or foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a doctoral degree. This qualification requirement must be fulfilled by the time the employment decision is made. Completed doctoral degree in electrical engineering, control theory, applied mathematics, or equivalent. The selected candidates need to have scientific excellence with an excellent academic record as well as well-developed analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. We are seeking highly motivated candidates who can work independently and also have good collaboration skills. Good knowledge of English in speech and writing is necessary for publishing and presenting research results at international conferences and journals. Merits At the application deadline, no more than three years since completion of the doctoral degree or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a doctoral degree. Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with particular focus on gender equality. We will place great emphasis on personal qualities. Become Part of KTH KTH shapes the future through education, research, and innovation. As a leading international technical university, we play an active role in driving and participating in the transformation to a sustainable society. Here you are offered the opportunity to grow and develop in a creative and dynamic workplace with good working conditions and benefits. Equality, diversity, and equal conditions are a quality issue and a natural part of KTH's values as a university and state authority. Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work and develop at KTH. Trade Union Representatives Contact information for trade union representatives. Application You apply through KTH's recruitment system. As an applicant, you have the main responsibility for ensuring that your application is complete when submitted. The application should include: CV including relevant professional research experience, publication list, and three references (contact information). Copies of degree certificates and transcripts from your previous higher education studies. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents were not issued in one of these languages. A statement of (1) why you want to conduct research, (2) what research you propose and how you intend to contribute to KTH FOOD, and (3) how the proposed research relates to your previous research and future goals; maximum 2 pages long (in English). Collaboration with one of the other themes (Sustainable Food Production, Functional Foods and Health, Value Chains and Consumption, Circular Food Processes) is expected. In point (2), applicants are encouraged to describe how they view collaboration with one of the other themes. The application must be received by KTH no later than the application deadline at midnight, CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time). About the Employment The employment is permanent, but no longer than two years. A postdoctoral appointment is a time-limited merit-based position with a primary focus on research intended as a first career step after earning a doctorate. 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