PhD Candidate, Efficient LLM Algorithm, Hardware and System Design (1.0 FTE)

The Faculty of Science, Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science, is looking for a:

PhD Candidate, Efficient LLM Algorithm, Hardware and System Design (1.0 FTE)

Project description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to develop efficient on-device generative AI systems based on large language models (LLMs). The project focuses on creating compact, low-latency, and energy-efficient LLM following a hardware-software co-design approach that enables real-time computation on resource-constrained devices. Example applications include portable speech understanding and rehabilitation tools for speech disorders, real-time language processing for human-robot interaction, and adaptive content generation in augmented and virtual reality environments. The project combines algorithm design, model compression, and custom hardware acceleration to advance the state of the art in edge LLM. This position offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of technological advancements that promise to reshape the future. You will have the chance to participate in actual silicon tape-outs and gain hands-on experience across the complete design flow, including specialized training in both front-end and back-end integrated circuit design. Additionally, you will have access to substantial computing resources to develop and experiment with LLMs.

Key responsibilities 

As a Ph.D. candidate, your primary focus will be on developing compact, efficient, and real-time LLM algorithms/hardware on the edge and developing demos for specific applications such as speech disorder therapy. Your responsibilities will include:

• Conducting innovative research and developing proof-of-concept designs, collaborating with sensor providers and other potential collaborators;
•  Writing multiple research articles, collectively forming the foundational content for your PhD thesis to attain a PhD degree (dr.) at Leiden University;
•  Actively participating in the Leiden Graduate School of Science's education and supervision programs;
•  Assisting in teaching and supervising Bachelor's and Master's thesis projects, contributing to academic excellence at Leiden University.
• This role offers an opportunity to drive forward groundbreaking research while enhancing your teaching and supervisory skills in a dynamic academic environment.

Selection Criteria
We are seeking a highly motivated university graduate with a proven track record in education and research. The applicant is expected to have:

• A MSc or equivalent degree in Microelectronics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field;
• Expertise in your field of study, in particular in deep learning, LLM, digital  hardware design, embedded systems, audio processing;
• Proficiency in deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch) and programming skills (SystemVerilog, Verilog, Python, C++, etc.); experience with FPGA and ASIC design flow;
• A collaborative spirit for teamwork within diverse project groups;
• Excellent communication and presentation skills and creative thinking;
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.
• This role is for someone eager to innovate and excel in a pioneering research environment.

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 make a contribution 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 organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programs. 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 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 1 year term position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities, and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary ranges from € 2.901,- to € 3.707,-  gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

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-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.

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
Inquiries can be made to Dr. Qinyu Chen at email: q.chen@liacs.leidenuniv.nl. If you have any questions about the procedure, please sent an email to: jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.

Applications
Please submit your application online via the blue button in the vacancy. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:

• Curriculum Vitae;
• 1-page letter of motivation;
• 1-page research statement about this position;
• MSc and BSc diplomas with transcripts courses + grades;
• The names of two references who can be contacted for the shortlisted candidates.

Only applications received before 1 October 2025 can be considered. We also encourage early submissions.