PhD Position for Building Clinical Foundation Models for Real-World Healthcare 2026

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January 19, 2026 (Updated March 13, 2026) 6 min read

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PhD student (m/f/d) | Building Clinical Foundation Models for Real-World Healthcare

Position Description

The Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry (MPIB) in Martinsried is one of the world's leading research institutions in the fields of biochemistry, cell and structural biology, and biomedical research. With approximately 30 scientific departments and research groups and about 750 employees, the MPIB is one of the largest institutes of the Max Planck Society. The Department of Machine Learning and Systems Biology led by Prof. Dr. Karsten Borgwardt is looking to recruit a highly-motivated PhD student (m/f/d) for the project Building Clinical Foundation Models for Real-World Healthcare (MLCARE project DC3). The position is funded by the MSCA Doctoral Network MLCARE (Machine Learning Computational Advancements for peRsonalized mEdicine). The MLCARE Doctoral Network seeks to advance personalized medicine by developing cutting-edge AI solutions that integrate genomic, clinical, and environmental data into holistic, multimodal patient representations. The program will equip doctoral candidates with the technical, analytical, and ethical skills needed to lead the future of patient-centered, AI-driven medicine. The advertised PhD project aims to develop robust and generalizable clinical foundation models (FMs) that can understand and reason across the diverse and often messy landscape of electronic health records (EHRs). By integrating structured data, free-text notes, lab results, and medical imaging, the PhD researcher will create multi-modal models that reflect the full richness of real clinical workflows. Using multi-hospital datasets, including both public sources such as MIMIC and private clinical data from LMU Hospital, the models will be pretrained to achieve strong generalization across hospitals and patient populations. Innovative self-supervised learning strategies will link EHR entries with patient-reported outcomes, enabling the models to learn without extensive manual labelling. To ensure practical impact, the project will focus on creating clinically understandable prompting techniques that help physicians interact with these models more effectively–avoiding costly fine-tuning and building trust in AI-driven medical decisions.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree (or equivalent) with a minimum total of 300 ECTS credits in fields such as data science, computer science, physics, or mathematics. Candidates with background in biology and medicine, as well as mathematical, computational, and engineering disciplines are also encouraged to apply. They should be enthusiastic about developing new methods in machine learning to solve problems in the life sciences. Excellent interdisciplinary communication skills as well as written and oral command of the English language are essential. Previous research experience in machine learning and computational biology is advantageous but not required.

Specific requirements

  • Applicants must not already be in possession of a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but have not yet been formally awarded the degree are not considered doctoral candidates.
  • Enrollment in a doctoral programme at time of recruitment leading to the award of a degree in at least one EU Member State or Horizon Europe associated country.
  • Full-time and exclusive dedication to the assigned MSCA project.
  • Candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date - unless as part of a compulsory national service or a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention.

Research environment

An MSCA Doctoral Network is a competitively selected joint doctoral programme, implemented by partnerships of universities, research institutions, research infrastructures, businesses (including SMEs), and other socio-economic actors from different countries across Europe and beyond. The programme leverages complementary competences of the participating organizations and enables sharing of knowledge, networking activities, the organization of workshops and conferences. Doctoral candidates in particular benefit from outstanding training opportunities and international secondments. The doctoral candidate recruited for MLCARE project DC3 will be located in the Department of Machine Learning and Systems Biology at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry in Martinsried, near Munich, with the opportunity to undertake secondments at ETHZ and with an industrial partner (Pharmatics). The Department of Machine Learning and Systems Biology is an international, enthusiastic, and collaborative team in an outstanding dynamic scientific environment. Research foci in the department are machine learning on graphs, machine learning in medicine and machine learning in protein research. The Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry was founded in 1973 with the aim to understand fundamental mechanisms of biochemistry, cell and structural biology, biophysics and molecular medicine. Machine learning and bioinformatics play an increasingly important role in this endeavor. The institute is part of a strong network of research institutions in the southwest of Munich and provides outstanding research opportunities for its scientists. Payment will be according to qualifications and in accordance with TVöD E13 (German public service tariff contracts, more information on the salary scales of PhDs in Germany can be found here) The initial appointment will be for 3 years. Informal inquiries are welcome and should be sent to . Further information about the institute and the department. The Max-Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in research and explicitly encourages women to apply.

Application

Then please upload your complete application documents, containing a one-page letter with a personal statement describing your scientific accomplishments and your interests in our department and its research, a detailed CV, academic records, a proof of English proficiency in electronic form via the online application website and arrange for at least two letters of recommendation to be sent to  by the application deadline with subject [Application DC3 - your name and surname]. In addition, it is important to fill in the central application form, indicating your preference for project DC3. Only complete applications will be considered. Please note that the online application website is only available during the application window January 1st- 31st, 2026. Applications by e-mail will not be considered for data protection reasons. Candidates may apply to more than one position within the MLCARE doctoral network, if relevant.
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Written by admin Published on January 19, 2026
Sweden

Linköping University PhD 2026 in AI for Medical Imaging

🏛️ Linkoping University 📍 Sweden 📚 Engineering Open · 24 days left (Deadline: May 14, 2026)
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Taiba Tahir
April 20, 2026 (Updated April 20, 2026) 2 min read

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If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Europe at the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare, the opportunity at Linköping University is a strong choice. This fully funded PhD focuses on deep learning for medical imaging, with real-world applications in early lung cancer detection.

PhD Position Overview

  • University: Linköping University

  • Location: Linköping

  • Department: Biomedical Engineering

  • Supervisor: Anders Eklund

  • Program: Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS)

  • Degree Level: PhD

  • Duration: 4–5 Years

  • Deadline: May 14, 2026

Research Focus

This PhD is part of Sweden’s national Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) initiative, aimed at advancing AI-driven biomedical research.

The project focuses on:

  • Deep learning for medical image analysis

  • Early detection of lung cancer

  • Combining:

    • High-resolution CT scan data

    • Clinical variables (age, smoking status, etc.)

  • Classifying lung nodules as benign or malignant

The research uses large-scale datasets (30,000+ subjects) and aims to improve diagnostic accuracy in healthcare systems.

Key Research Areas

  • Computer vision for medical imaging

  • Deep learning model development

  • Multi-modal data fusion (imaging + clinical data)

  • Large-scale biomedical data analysis

  • AI applications in precision medicine and diagnostics

Scholarship Benefits

The PhD position offers:

  • Starting salary of SEK 36,400/month (increases annually)

  • Fully funded PhD training (no tuition fees)

  • Access to advanced AI infrastructure, including:

    • High-performance computing systems

  • Participation in a national research program (DDLS)

  • Collaboration with:

    • Hospitals

    • AI research labs

  • Opportunities for teaching (up to 20%)

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Master’s degree in:

    • Biomedical Engineering

    • Computer Science

    • Machine Learning

    • Electrical Engineering

    • Statistics or related fields

  • Strong background in:

    • Deep learning

    • Computer vision

    • Mathematics

  • Programming skills (especially Python)

  • English language proficiency

Preferred qualifications:

  • Experience in medical image analysis

  • Knowledge of large-scale data processing

Responsibilities

Selected candidates will:

  • Develop AI models for lung cancer detection

  • Analyze large medical imaging datasets

  • Collaborate with clinicians and researchers

  • Publish research in scientific journals

  • Participate in academic discussions and research meetings

Research Environment

Linköping University is one of Sweden’s leading institutions in AI and engineering, with strong links to national initiatives such as:

  • DDLS (Data-Driven Life Science)

  • WASP (AI research program)

  • ELLIIT (IT and mobile communication research)

The research group collaborates closely with hospitals and international partners, providing a highly interdisciplinary environment.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must:

  • Submit an online application before the deadline

  • Include academic transcripts and CV

  • Provide proof of qualifications and experience

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Why Study in Sweden?

Sweden offers:

  • High-quality research and education

  • Strong focus on innovation and AI

  • Excellent work-life balance

  • International and inclusive academic culture

Final Thoughts

This PhD in Biomedical Engineering is ideal for candidates interested in AI, healthcare, and real-world impact. With access to large datasets, advanced computing resources, and interdisciplinary collaboration, it provides an excellent platform for building a career in medical AI research.

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Written by Taiba Tahir Published on April 20, 2026
Norway

University of Stavanger PhD 2026 in Energy Engineering

🏛️ University of Stavanger 📍 Norway 📚 Engineering Open · 40 days left (Deadline: May 30, 2026)
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Taiba Tahir
April 20, 2026 (Updated April 20, 2026) 2 min read

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If you are planning to pursue a fully funded PhD in sustainable energy, the opportunity at University of Stavanger offers an excellent pathway into advanced research in geothermal systems. This PhD fellowship focuses on optimizing energy transfer in shallow geothermal wells, combining experimental work, modeling, and AI-driven optimization.

PhD Position Overview

  • University: University of Stavanger

  • Location: Stavanger

  • Department: Energy and Petroleum Engineering

  • Supervisor: Kristian Gjerstad

  • Degree Level: PhD

  • Start Date: August 2026

  • Duration: 3 Years

  • Deadline: May 30, 2026

Research Focus

This PhD project explores efficient and sustainable geothermal energy systems, aiming to improve heating and cooling technologies.

Key research objectives include:

  • Optimizing energy transfer in shallow geothermal wells

  • Reducing energy losses in circulation systems

  • Improving cost efficiency per kWh

  • Developing thermal and hydraulic models

  • Applying AI-based and hybrid optimization methods

Key Research Questions

  • How does well design affect heat transfer and energy losses?

  • What operating conditions maximize energy output?

  • How can models better predict geothermal system performance?

Research Tasks

The selected candidate will work on:

  • Experimental studies on heat transfer and pressure loss

  • Building and modifying flow loop systems

  • Developing computational thermal and hydraulic models

  • Applying AI and control algorithms for system optimization

  • Validating models using real-world data

Expected Outcomes

The project aims to deliver:

  • Advanced models for geothermal system design

  • Improved energy efficiency and sustainability

  • Practical solutions for future green energy systems

Scholarship Benefits

This fully funded PhD includes:

  • Annual salary of NOK 550,800

  • Pension and insurance benefits

  • Access to Norway’s public healthcare system

  • Paid parental leave and social benefits

  • Free Norwegian language courses

  • Relocation support

  • Access to sports facilities and wellness services

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Master’s degree in:

    • Energy Engineering

    • Physics

    • Computer Science

    • Petroleum Engineering or related fields

  • Strong academic record (minimum grade equivalent to B)

  • Skills in:

    • Numerical modeling

    • Data analysis or AI

  • Experience in:

    • Experimental work (preferred)

    • Software development

  • Strong English proficiency

English Language Requirements

Applicants must provide one of the following:

  • TOEFL (minimum 90)

  • IELTS (minimum 6.5)

  • Cambridge CAE/CPE

  • PTE Academic (minimum 62)

Exemptions apply for candidates with prior education in English-speaking countries or EU/EEA programs.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates must submit:

  • CV and academic records

  • Motivation letter

  • Research proposal (mandatory)

  • Certificates and diplomas

  • Proof of English proficiency

  • Relevant publications (if available)

Applications must be submitted through the official online portal.

Why Choose Stavanger?

Stavanger is a leading energy hub in Europe, making it an ideal location for research in sustainable technologies. The University of Stavanger is known for:

  • Strong industry collaboration in energy sectors

  • Focus on green transition and sustainability

  • International research environment

  • High quality of life and work-life balance

Final Thoughts

This PhD fellowship is ideal for candidates interested in renewable energy, AI-driven optimization, and engineering innovation. With strong financial support and access to cutting-edge research facilities, it offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the future of sustainable energy systems.

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Written by Taiba Tahir Published on April 20, 2026
Netherlands

Eindhoven University of Technology PhD 2026 in Statistical Bioinformatics

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Taiba Tahir
April 20, 2026 (Updated April 20, 2026) 2 min read

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If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Europe with strong financial support, the opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology is one of the best options available. This fully funded PhD position in Statistical Bioinformatics offers competitive salary, advanced research training, and access to a world-class innovation ecosystem in the Netherlands.

Overview of the PhD Position

  • Host Institution: Eindhoven University of Technology

  • Location: Eindhoven

  • Department: Mathematics and Computer Science

  • Supervisor: Jeanine Duistermaat

  • Degree Level: PhD

  • Deadline: May 16, 2026

  • Duration: 4 Years

  • Employment Type: Full-time

Research Focus

This PhD project focuses on statistical data integration in biomedical research, particularly using advanced models for complex biological datasets.

Key research areas include:

  • Development of latent variable models for multi-omics data

  • Statistical modeling of longitudinal biological datasets

  • Integration of datasets such as:

    • Proteomics

    • Metabolomics

    • Transcriptomics

  • Assessing model performance and goodness-of-fit

  • Creating R packages for practical implementation

The research contributes directly to improving understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

Scholarship Benefits

The PhD position offers a strong financial and professional package:

  • Monthly salary between €3,059 – €3,881

  • Annual bonuses:

    • 8.3% year-end bonus

    • 8% holiday allowance

  • Pension scheme and paid leave benefits

  • Travel, remote work, and internet allowances

  • Access to:

    • High-quality research infrastructure

    • Training and career development programs

    • Sports and campus facilities

  • Support for international candidates, including relocation assistance

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this PhD position, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Master’s degree in:

    • Mathematics

    • Statistics

    • Or a closely related field

  • Strong background in:

    • Statistical modeling

    • Data analysis

  • Interest in biomedical applications and interdisciplinary research

  • Good communication and academic writing skills

  • English proficiency (minimum C1 level)

Additional advantages:

  • Experience with biological datasets

  • Programming skills (especially in R or similar tools)

Responsibilities

Selected candidates will:

  • Develop new statistical methods for multi-omics data

  • Apply models to real-world biomedical datasets

  • Build and maintain software tools (R packages)

  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams

  • Present research at conferences and publish findings

  • Contribute to teaching (10–15% workload)

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit:

  • Motivation letter

  • Updated CV (including publications and references)

  • Academic transcripts

  • Contact details of referees

Applications must be submitted through the official online portal. Incomplete or email submissions are not accepted.

Why Choose TU Eindhoven?

Eindhoven University of Technology is located in the Brainport Eindhoven region, one of Europe’s leading technology hubs. The university is known for:

  • Strong collaboration with high-tech industries

  • Cutting-edge research in AI, data science, and engineering

  • A highly international academic environment

  • Practical, impact-driven research approach

Final Thoughts

This PhD in Statistical Bioinformatics is ideal for candidates who want to combine advanced mathematics, data science, and biomedical research in a fully funded European program. With strong academic support and industry connections, it offers an excellent pathway for a research career in data-driven healthcare.

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Written by Taiba Tahir Published on April 20, 2026
Luxembourg

University of Luxembourg PhD in Civil Engineering 2026

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Taiba Tahir
April 20, 2026 (Updated April 20, 2026) 3 min read

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The University of Luxembourg is offering a fully funded PhD position in Civil Engineering with a focus on hybrid composite structures. This doctoral opportunity is part of the European HySCom project, aimed at developing next-generation structural systems using advanced materials such as UHPC and steel-concrete composites.

The position is hosted by the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) and provides a strong combination of experimental research, numerical modelling, and industry collaboration.

PhD Position Overview

  • Level of Study: PhD (Doctoral Researcher)

  • Institution: University of Luxembourg

  • Faculty: Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM)

  • Department: Engineering (DoE)

  • Supervisor: Markus Schäfer

  • Location: Luxembourg City (Kirchberg Campus)

  • Duration: 36 months

  • Start Date: June 15, 2026

  • Salary: €41,976 per year (gross, full-time)

  • Language Requirement: English (minimum B2 level)

Project Overview – HySCom

This PhD position is part of the Eurostars HySCom project, focusing on the development of innovative hybrid composite columns combining:

  • Reinforced concrete

  • Structural steel

  • Steel Fibre Reinforced Ultra-High Performance Concrete (SFRUHPC)

The project is conducted in collaboration with a leading German industrial partner, providing real-world engineering applications alongside academic research.

Research Areas

The doctoral research will include:

  • Material characterization of concrete and UHPC

  • Development and optimization of UHPC mixtures

  • Experimental testing (small-scale and large-scale structural tests)

  • Push tests and column tests

  • Advanced nonlinear finite element modelling (Abaqus)

  • Fire and ambient condition simulations

  • Structural design model development

  • Parametric studies and model validation

Key Responsibilities

The selected candidate will:

  • Conduct laboratory-based experimental research

  • Develop and validate computational models

  • Perform 3D nonlinear FEM simulations

  • Publish results in international journals

  • Present findings at global conferences

  • Support teaching and academic activities

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Education

  • Master’s degree in:

    • Civil Engineering

    • Structural Engineering

    • Related engineering discipline

Technical Skills

  • Strong knowledge of:

    • Structural engineering

    • Steel–concrete composite systems

    • Construction materials (concrete, UHPC)

  • Familiarity with:

    • Eurocodes (EN 1990, EN 1992, EN 1993, EN 1994)

  • Experience with:

    • Nonlinear FEM (preferably Abaqus, GMNIA)

Additional Requirements

  • Interest in experimental and numerical research

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

  • English proficiency (minimum B2 level)

Salary and Benefits

This is a fully funded doctoral position offering:

  • €41,976 annual gross salary

  • Full-time employment (40 hours/week)

  • Access to advanced laboratory and simulation facilities

  • Collaboration with industry partners

  • Opportunities to attend international conferences

  • Multicultural research environment

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Motivation letter

  • Academic transcripts

  • Contact details of 1–2 referees

Applications must be submitted through the official online system. Email applications are not accepted.

How to Apply

To apply for this PhD position:

  1. Prepare all required documents

  2. Submit your application through the official University of Luxembourg HR portal

  3. Apply as early as possible (rolling selection process)

Contract Details

  • Position Title: Doctoral Researcher

  • Contract Type: Fixed-term (36 months)

  • Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week)

  • Campus: Kirchberg, Luxembourg

About the Faculty (FSTM)

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine at the University of Luxembourg is a multidisciplinary hub covering:

  • Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Physics and Mathematics

  • Life Sciences and Medicine

The Department of Engineering focuses on innovative and sustainable solutions for modern infrastructure and industry challenges.

Why Apply for This PhD?

This opportunity is ideal for candidates who want to:

  • Work on cutting-edge composite materials and structures

  • Gain hands-on laboratory and simulation experience

  • Collaborate with industry partners

  • Build an international research career in Europe

  • Contribute to sustainable infrastructure development

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Written by Taiba Tahir Published on April 20, 2026