Connectionists: two open PhD positions in machine learning

[Samy Bengio]

Two Open Positions in Machine Learning
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The IDIAP Research Institute seeks two qualified candidates for PhD positions
in machine learning.

The objective of the first project is to develop novel kernel based algorithms 
for the analysis of sequences of high level events, such as automatic speech 
recognition (ASR). State-of-the-art ASR systems are based on generative Hidden 
Markov Models (HMMs). On the other hand, recent machine learning research have 
shown promising results in kernel based large margin discriminant models such 
as Support Vector Machines (SVMs) which maximize the margin between positive 
and negative examples. More recently, new kernels were proposed for various
time-series tasks. The objective of this project is to study how these 
kernels could be modified in the context of more complex temporal tasks such 
as speech and video understanding.

The objective of the second project is to develop novel machine learning
algorithms for multi-channel sequence processing. Modeling jointly several 
sources of information (recorded from several cameras, microphones, etc) has
several practical applications, including audio-visual speech recognition, 
multimodal person tracking, or complex scene analysis. Several machine learning
models have already been proposed for such task, mainly for the case of 
two channels.  The goal of this project is to propose theoretical and applied 
solutions for the case of more than two (potentially asynchronous) channels. 
Generative (Markovian based) models as well as margin-based models will be 
considered for the task.

The ideal candidates will hold a degree in computer science, statistics, or 
related fields. She or he should have strong background in statistics, linear 
algebra, signal processing, C++, Perl and/or Python scripting languages, and 
the Linux environment. Knowledge in statistical machine learning and speech 
processing is an asset.

Appointment for a PhD position is for a maximum of 4 years, provided 
successful progress, and should lead to a dissertation. Annual gross salary 
ranges from 36,000 Swiss Francs (first year) to 40,000 Swiss Francs (last 
year). Starting date is immediate.

IDIAP is an equal opportunity employer and is actively involved in the 
European initiative involving the Advancement of Women in Science. IDIAP seeks 
to maintain a principle of open competition (on the basis of merit) to appoint 
the best candidate, provides equal opportunity for all candidates, and equally 
encourages both females and males to consider employment with IDIAP.

Although IDIAP is located in the French part of Switzerland, English is the 
main working language. Free English and French lessons are provided.

IDIAP is located in the town of Martigny in Valais, a scenic region in the 
south of Switzerland, surrounded by the highest mountains of Europe, and 
offering exciting recreational activities, including hiking, climbing and 
skiing, as well as varied cultural activities. It is within close proximity 
to Montreux (Jazz Festival) and Lausanne.

Interested candidates should send a letter of motivation, along with their 
detailed CV and names of 3 references to jobs at idiap.ch. More information can 
also be obtained by contacting Samy Bengio.

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Samy Bengio
Senior Researcher in Machine Learning.
IDIAP, CP 592, rue du Simplon 4, 1920 Martigny, Switzerland.
tel: +41 27 721 77 39, fax: +41 27 721 77 12.
mailto:bengio at idiap.ch, http://www.idiap.ch/~bengio