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The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) are looking for a:

PhD candidate, Feature-based machine learning for precision diagnosis of neuromuscular diseases

Neuromuscular disorders, which affect millions of people in Europe alone, lead to (progressive) muscle weakness or sensory deficits that gravely affect life expectancy and quality of life. To diagnose the disorders, needle electromyography (nEMG) data must be assessed audio-visually by experts, which is subjective and time-consuming.

In this project, experts in computer science and clinical neurophysiology will collaborate with a commercial partner to develop an artificial-intelligence platform integrating feature-based and deep learning approaches to automatically, objectively and accurately interpret nEMG data to improve the diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders ensuring explainability and responsible AI practices. Researchers of this project will validate the method using real nEMG data from around the world and take first steps towards integrating the platform into the existing software for clinical use. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the cutting-edge research that will significantly impact the clinical landscape of neuromuscular disorders.

More specifically, the PhD researcher employed in this position will build on the earlier collaboration between LIACS and Leiden University Medical Center which has produced a smaller study yielding promising preliminary results using a feature-based automated classification pipeline. In the later stages of the project, the researcher will investigate the hybridisations of her/his approach with the deep learning techniques to improve the diagnostic yield.

Key responsibilities
The person employed in this PhD position will be responsible for:

• conducting original and novel research in the field of applied machine learning;
• development of the methodology of classification of nEMG recordings complementary to the deep learning approach;
• design and implementation of the feature-based machine learning platform for the classification of nEMG recordings;
• integration of the developed platform within the project’s toolbox and multicentre database of anonymised patient data;
• collaboration with researchers in their own group, two other PhD students involved in the project in other institutions and their respective research groups;
• publishing and presenting scientific results at international conferences and journals;
• completing the courses on academic and transferable skills as required by Leiden University;
• providing assistance in relevant teaching activities within LIACS.

Selection Criteria
The successful applicant should be a motivated university graduate who is a top performer among his/her peers and has an excellent education and/or research track record proven by relevant experience, publications, etc. Candidates in the final stages of obtaining their degree are eligible to apply. The applicant is expected to have or be close to obtaining:

• MSc degree in Computer science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Artificial Intelligence, Data science or related field;
• Excellent programming skills in, e.g., Python and/or C++ (as evidenced by, e.g., a code repository link);
• Credible experience with Machine Learning and/or Data science projects;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, Dutch proficiency or willingness to learn is a plus;
• Ability to work with diverse stakeholders, along with an affinity for connecting work in Computer Science to other relevant disciplines.

Research at our faculty
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to contribute to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2.300 staff and almost 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together. For more information, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science and https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at

The Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) is the Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Institute in the Faculty of Science of Leiden University. We offer courses at the Bachelor and Master of Science level in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, ICT in Business, Media Technology, and Bioinformatics. According to an independent research visitation, we are one of the foremost computer science departments of the Netherlands. We strive for excellence in a caring institute, where excellence, fun, and diversity go hand in hand. We offer a clear and inviting career path to young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow. For more information about LIACS, see https://www.cs.leiden.edu

Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time position for one year initially. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility, the appointment will be extended by further three years. Salary ranges from € 2.770,- to € 3.539,- gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Preferred starting date for this position is November 1, 2024 or soon thereafter. Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/graduate-school-of-of-science Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

Within this project, PhD students are encouraged to spend a semester abroad, and a budget is available to cover their expenses. Moreover, generous (conference) travel budgets are available for the position.

D&I statement
Diversity and inclusion are core values of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

Information
Enquiries on the technical content of this position can be made to Dr Anna Kononova, a.kononova@liacs.leidenuniv.nl. If you have any questions about the procedure, please send an email to jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.

Applications
Please submit online your application via the blue button in the vacancy. Applications submitted via email will not be considered.

Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:

• Motivation letter
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic transcript of the MSc degree
• Names of 2-3 references if applicable

Only applications received before September 15, 2024 can be considered. Selected candidates will be invited for an interview in the beginning of October 2024.

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