Join AI:GENOMIX, a newly established AI:X Labs at Aalborg University and help push the boundaries of how artificial intelligence can reveal the genetic architecture of common human diseases. As a PhD researcher in AI:GENOMIX, you will contribute to next‑generation models that rethink polygenic prediction and support the future of precision medicine. AI:X is an ambitious initiative at Aalborg University that aims to advance AI research and create real-world impact through interdisciplinary collaboration.

The initiative currently hosts five AI:X‑Labs with a total of 20 PhD students. In 2026, nine additional labs will be established, including AI:GENOMIX, contributing a further 18 PhD stipends and expanding the university’s cross‑faculty research in artificial intelligence. AI:GENOMIX is one of these labs and brings together researchers from the Department of Health Science and Technology (Faculty of Medicine) and the Department of Mathematical Sciences (Faculty of Engineering and Science).

The AI:GENOMIX Lab focuses on developing AI methods that capture how genes interact to influence the risk of common diseases. Traditional genetic tools often analyse genetic variants independently, overlooking complex interaction patterns that may carry important biological information. By integrating deep learning, genome-wide simulations, functional genomics, and large-scale biobank data, AI:GENOMIX aims to deliver more accurate and personalised genetic predictions that can support earlier detection, improved disease stratification, and more targeted prevention strategies.

The two stipends are open for appointment from 15 August 2026 or soon hereafter. The duration of the position is three years.

Your work tasks

The AI:GENOMIX Lab is recruiting for two closely connected PhD stipends, each with its own scientific emphasis but with substantial collaboration between them:

Stipend 1: AI Core – Deep learning models for genetic interactions
This stipend focuses on developing and analysing deep learning architectures capable of capturing non‑additive genetic effects in large‑scale genomic data.

Stipend 2: AI Integrated – Genetic interaction models in a biological and clinical context
This stipend centres on applying and interpreting genetic interaction models in relation to human biology, molecular function, and clinical phenotypes.

As a PhD student in AI:GENOMIX, your research will revolve around understanding how combinations of genetic variants shape disease risk and how AI methods can most effectively model these patterns. Both stipends involve working with simulated data, biobank‑scale genomic resources, and functional annotations to explore the potential of modelling non‑additive genetic effects across the genome. Your work will include preparing and curating data, developing or applying advanced modelling approaches, conducting systematic benchmarking studies, and analysing the methodological and biological implications of your findings.

You will work closely with supervisors and with the fellow PhD student in the complementary stipend, contribute to scientific publications, present your work at conferences, and participate in the interdisciplinary activities of the AI:X‑Lab. As part of your doctoral training, you will complete relevant PhD courses and engage in academic and departmental activities, which may include limited teaching or supervision tasks in accordance with departmental needs and your own competencies.

Your competencies 

We are looking for two highly motivated PhD candidates who are eager to contribute to an interdisciplinary research environment and who are comfortable working across the boundaries of AI, genetics, and health sciences. For both stipends, we value curiosity, the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively, and a commitment to producing high‑quality research. You should enjoy engaging in discussions across disciplines and be open to learning from colleagues with backgrounds different from your own. Strong English communication skills, a willingness to contribute to a positive team atmosphere, and the ability to manage complex tasks over time are important qualities for both positions.

For Stipend 1 (AI Core), we seek a candidate with a strong methodological profile and an interest in developing new AI models for high‑dimensional biological data. You should have a solid foundation in areas such as machine learning, applied mathematics, statistics, or computational modelling, and you should be comfortable working with large datasets and modern deep learning frameworks. Experience with neural network design, optimisation techniques, or scalable computing is an advantage, as is an interest in exploring how mathematical models can reveal new insights into genomic architecture.

For Stipend 2 (AI Integrated), we are looking for a candidate with a strong interest in human genetics and the biological interpretation of complex traits. You should have experience with genetic data analysis, statistical genetics, and be motivated to understand how AI‑based models can be connected to biological function and clinical relevance. Familiarity with genomic data processing, phenotyping, or functional annotation is beneficial, as is an interest in bridging computational methods with biological insight.

Across both positions, we welcome applicants who are enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research, open to developing new skills, and motivated to contribute actively to the AI:GENOMIX Lab.

Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science (stipend 1) or at the Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology (stipend 2) in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. As part of the PhD study, you are among other things required to complete PhD courses corresponding to 30 ECTS, gain experience with teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination and complete an external research stay outside of Aalborg University, preferably 3-6 months at a foreign research institution.

Who we are    

Stipend 1 will be located at the Department of Mathematical Sciences that conducts research in a wide range of mathematical disciplines, including both fundamental and applied research (e.g., statistical methods for forensics, life sciences, topological data analysis, spatial statistics, and computational statistics). The department values an informal atmosphere with strong collegial support, openness, and a long tradition of collaboration across research groups. Staff members enjoy significant freedom to shape their research directions. You can read more about the Department of Mathematical Sciences at: https://www.math.aau.dk/english.

Stipend 2 will be located at the Department of Health Science and Technology, that conducts research that spans biomedical sciences, clinical research, biostatistics, neuroscience, and medical technology. The department combines strong expertise in human genetics, precision health, and large‑scale data analysis, and offers a collaborative environment where researchers work closely with clinicians, engineers, and data scientists. The atmosphere is interdisciplinary and supportive, with access to modern laboratory facilities and international research networks. You can read more about the Department of Health Science and Technology at: https://www.hst.aau.dk.

The Aalborg area has a high quality of life and work/life balance. There is a lively cultural scene, modern infrastructure (busses, train station, and airport), and affordable living costs. The region offers easy access nature ideal for relaxing, hiking, biking, or sailing (beaches, forests, and fjords). Read more about Aalborg and the region at, e.g., Enjoy Nordjylland and Invest in Aalborg.dk .

How to apply
Your application must include the following:

• Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position,

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Diplomas (bachelor’s and master's degree diploma, including grades)

• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website. 

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position. 

Do you have any questions?     
If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

The recruitment process will include an online first‑round interview (April 30th and May 1st, 2026), during which shortlisted candidates will be asked to prepare a brief task related to the position. If necessary, a second in‑person interview will be held at Aalborg University. 

Further information  
Read more about our recruitment process here.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

Read more about The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science

Read more about The Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology

Salary and terms of employment
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities (the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities (in Danish).

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish) 

There is a mutual probationary period of 3 months for the position.

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world
Aalborg University is an international workplace with more than 3,700 employees. We offer real-world-oriented education and create world-class research results through collaboration between researchers, students, and public and private companies. This is how we achieve insights, new solutions to societal problems, and knowledge that changes the world. Our main campus is in Aalborg, but we also have campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.