Postdoctoral Fellow – Multimodal Models and Machine Learning Full-time

Postdoctoral Fellows (PDF)

This position has an initial appointment of 1 year, with the possibility of renewal. This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton. We invite applications for 2 Postdoctoral Fellow positions in machine learning and artificial intelligence, with a focus on multimodal foundation models and related areas. The successful candidate will join a collaborative research group lead by Dr. Xingyu Li, contribute to ongoing projects, and develop an independent research agenda aligned with the group's broader interests.

Research areas of interest may include, but are not limited to:

• multimodal foundation models
• vision-language models and multimodal large language models
• trustworthy AI, robust generalization, and model evaluation
• efficient learning, adaptation, and representation design
• multimodal reasoning and structured understanding

This position offers the opportunity to pursue high-impact research in a fast-moving area of AI, work closely with graduate students, and publish in leading venues. The initial appointment will be for one year, with the possibility of extension for a second year.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research in multimodal foundation models and machine learning.
• Develop an independent research agenda aligned with the group's interests in trustworthy AI, efficient learning, and multimodal reasoning
• Publish high-impact work in top-tier conferences and journals.
• Assist in mentoring graduate students and fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Contribute to grant writing, project development, and other scholarly activities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related discipline by the appointment start date.
• Strong research record in machine learning, AI, computer vision, NLP, multimodal learning, or related areas.
• Evidence of high-quality publications in leading conferences and/or journals.
• Strong coding and experimental skills in modern machine learning frameworks.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience in multimodal foundation models, trustworthy AI, efficient model design, or multimodal reasoning.
• Experience mentoring graduate or undergraduate students.
• Ability to lead independent research projects and collaborate across related areas.

Application Instructions

Click “Apply Now” to submit the following:

• Curriculum vitae
• Research plan
• Cover letter
• Selected publications
• Contact information for 2-3 references

This position has a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.

About the Team

The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America's top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.

About University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community. The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people – from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more. At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns. The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply. L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.