Join the University of Freiburg, one of the most prestigious and research-intensive universities in Germany, offering a unique diversity and interplay of disciplines and perspectives in one of the most popular cities in the heart of Europe.
The Institute of Computer Science is looking for a
Senior Scientist / Principal Scientist (Akadem. Rat*Rätin auf Probe/Lebenszeit) in Embedded AI and Ubiquitous Computing (f/m/d)
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- Application deadline: 22. April 2026
- Start-date: At the earliest possible date
- Scope of work: Full-time position
- Id no.: 00004904
Description
The successful candidate will lead research activities in the fields of embedded AI, ubiquitous computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). The role also involves supporting university teaching at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level in topics related to embedded AI. Research activities include, for example, the optimisation of machine learning for resource-constrained computing, algorithms for context recognition, expert-data model integration, sensor and actuator systems, and data processing with ultra-low energy consumption. The research activities are to be linked to applications, for example in the fields of biomedicine, digital health, space travel or automation.
Responsibilities
- Leading and implementing pioneering research activities in the field of embedded AI and ultra-low-power data processing
- Supporting university teaching in the field of embedded AI at Bachelor’s and Master’s level
- Securing third-party funding for research projects from national and EU programmes
- Initiating and actively participating in multidisciplinary, collaborative research networks with partners from the university, the university hospital and Hahn-Schickard
- Leading scientific publications in leading journals and conferences, as well as public relations
- Supervising and supporting PhD students
- Professional development to enhance scientific and technical skills, as well as management skills, through on-the-job training and a personalised programme
- Teaching duties in accordance with the Baden-Württemberg Teaching Duties Regulation
Qualifications
Key selection criteria include research and leadership qualities, particularly in relation to embedded AI and ubiquitous computing. A PhD in the field of computer science, embedded systems, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, or related disciplines is required for the position.
Academic achievement should be demonstrated through scientific publications, patent applications, external funding acquisition, and teaching experience. In particular, one or more of the following technical skills are expected:
- Design of embedded systems, including cross-compilation, hardware accelerators and system simulations
- Efficient machine learning, including quantisation, pruning, rank factorisation, and knowledge distillation
- Time series data analysis and signal processing
- Embedded neural networks and embedded implementation environments, including TensorFlow, PyTorch, TFLite, ONNX, etc.
- Proficiency in the use of modern data inference tools, e.g. Python, as well as programming languages, including C and C++
- Knowledge in the fields of wearable technologies and digital health is advantageous.
Furthermore, an independent, hands-on approach to work and excellent communication skills are required. The successful candidate will be interested in leading innovative developments.
In addition, a keen interest in practical applications and the translation of research findings into practical applications is expected. Excellent knowledge of German and English, or a commitment to learning German as a foreign language, is desirable. The requirements under civil service law must be met.
About the Intelligent Embedded Systems Lab
The research group works closely with Hahn-Schickard and offers an open, multidisciplinary and multicultural working environment with a wide range of research activities, including data science, biomedical data analysis, computer-based 3D modelling, and the design of embedded systems. We collaborate with numerous medical institutes, leading industry partners and spin-offs to translate research findings into practical applications. The members of the research group contribute diverse specialist expertise, including computer science, medical technology, electrical engineering and embedded systems. We operate state-of-the-art laboratories, including electronics development, additive manufacturing and photometric systems, and support validation studies. Furthermore, we operate dedicated servers for simulations and for testing methods and algorithms.
This is a permanent, full-time position. A reduction in working hours is negotiable. The start date is immediate or by agreement. Remuneration is in accordance with pay scale A13. Direct applications are preferred.
Please submit your application, quoting reference number 00004904, including a cover letter, CV, and supporting documents (uncertified), as a single PDF file, by 15 April 2026 at the latest. The application process involves one or more interviews via video conference or in person. Applications that do not meet the formatting requirements described above will not be considered.
We will be particularly pleased to receive applications from women for the position advertised here.
Application
Please send your application including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004904, by 22. April 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:
Universität Freiburg
Institut für Informatik
Prof. Amft/Embedded Systems
Georges-Köhler-Allee 302
79110 Freiburg im Breisgau
or (electronic) via Job portal
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Oliver Amft on the phone number +49 761 887865733 or E-Mail ies-admin@informatik.uni-freiburg.de.
General and legal remarks:
Full-time positions may generally be split up into two or more part-time positions, provided that there are no formal or legal barriers. Candidates are selected in accordance with the provisions of the AGG (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz - German General Equal Treatment Act). Applicants with disabilities (Schwerbehinderte Menschen) will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualification. The department offering the position is liable for the content of this job posting. Textual errors do not constitute a basis for any claims or rights. The relevant human resources department has sole responsibility for all legal transactions made within the context of the selection and hiring process. Please note that breaches in privacy and unauthorized access by third parties cannot be excluded in communication by unencrypted email.
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