About the opportunity
The University of Twente is seeking a part-time researcher for the SAREF4XAI project, a joint effort between the Semantics, Cybersecurity and Services (SCS) group at the University of Twente and the User-Centric Data Science (UCDS) group at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. The role focuses on semantic interoperability and explainable, knowledge-driven AI for smart environments, specifically exploring how ontologies, knowledge graphs, and knowledge-driven AI can be combined to support interoperable and explainable applications in the smart buildings domain. The researcher will investigate conceptual and technical approaches to enhance explainability in downstream AI tasks for complex socio-technical systems using open modelling standards and (neuro-) symbolic learning methods.
Salary and benefits
- Gross monthly salary ranging from €3,546 (step 0) to €4,241 (step 4), based on full-time employment, depending on experience and qualifications.
- Holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary.
- End-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
- Solid pension scheme.
- Flexibility to work partially from home.
- Minimum of 232 leave hours for full-time employment (based on a 38-hour week), with an additional 96 leave hours annually for those working 40 hours.
- Free access to campus sports facilities.
- Parental leave (both paid and unpaid).
- Support for research and facilities for professional and personal development.
Who can apply?
- MSc degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Industrial Engineering, Data Science, or a closely related field.
- Familiarity with knowledge graphs, ontologies, and related semantic technologies (including RDF, SPARQL, and formal logic).
- Familiarity with (neuro-) symbolic machine learning methods and their application.
- Analytical and conceptual thinking skills to work across technical and organisational perspectives.
- Programming skills in Python, Java, or similar languages.
- Interest in interdisciplinary applied research.
Required documents
- Curriculum Vitae, including names of two possible references, a list of publications, and a list of all courses attended and grades obtained.
- Cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4) emphasizing specific interest, qualifications, and motivations.
When to apply
- Apply before September 7, 2026.
- The official deadline listed in key takeaways is September 6, 2026.
How to apply
- Apply online via the 'Apply now' button, uploading a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications.
- The selection committee reviews applications; responses are sent within 2 weeks after the vacancy closes.
- First interview (online or in person) as an introduction, which may include a short presentation.
- Second interview to discuss job content, skills, and talents.
- Final offer and, if applicable, screening.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Researchers with an MSc in Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields.
- Individuals experienced in knowledge graphs, ontologies, and semantic technologies.
- Candidates comfortable with (neuro-) symbolic machine learning and programming in Python or Java.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a part-time (0.4 FTE) position, which may not be suitable for those seeking full-time research commitments.
- The role is based in Enschede, so candidates should assess their ability to work in a hybrid model within the Netherlands.
- The selection process includes a presentation, so applicants should be prepared to communicate technical concepts effectively.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is perfect for a researcher aiming to bridge the gap between technical AI development and practical, socio-technical applications in smart environments. It provides a platform to contribute to high-level semantic interoperability research while working within a collaborative, interdisciplinary framework between two major Dutch universities.
Our take
Researchers with a strong background in semantic technologies and a desire for interdisciplinary collaboration should apply; those seeking full-time roles or purely theoretical research may find this part-time, applied project less ideal.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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