Postdoc in Data Systems for Multimodal AI with IBM Research 100 %

What you will be responsible for

Recent advances in AI are driving applications that integrate large language models (LLMs), vision models, vector search, retrieval systems, and large-scale analytics. These multimodal workloads run across heterogeneous platforms, including distributed processing frameworks, vector databases, ML runtimes, and GPU-based systems. 

In collaboration with IBM Research Europe – Zurich, we investigate next-generation data systems for multimodal AI. The project explores architectures that dynamically orchestrate tasks across heterogeneous engines, optimize execution, and manage resources across CPUs, GPUs, and specialized accelerators. 

This postdoctoral position focuses on optimizing and executing multimodal AI workflows involving LLMs, vision models, and data analytics across multiple processing engines. 

Your work may include:

• Developing architectures that support multimodal AI pipelines.
• Investigating optimization techniques for AI pipelines, including analytical- and learning-based optimizers for heterogeneous systems such as relational databases (e.g. PostgreSQL, DuckDB) and distributed data processing frameworks (e.g. Spark, Presto).
• Building resource management and scheduling mechanisms for heterogeneous hardware environments (CPUs, GPUs, hardware accelerators).
• Enabling efficient execution of AI workflows, where multiple models and tools interact dynamically to solve complex tasks.
• Implementing prototype systems and evaluating them on realistic AI and data workloads. 
• Assisting in teaching (Databases and Intelligent Information Systems) 

The research will bridge ideas from database systems, distributed systems, and machine learning systems.

What makes you a great fit

Required qualifications:

• PhD degree in Computer Science, AI, Data Engineering, or a related field
• Strong background in distributed systems (e.g. Spark), relational databases (e.g. Postgres or DuckDB) and machine learning
• Solid programming skills in Python
• Interest in publishing in leading systems and AI systems conferences such as VLDB, SIGMOD, ICDE, etc. 

Preferred experience:

• Machine learning-based query optimization
• Modern agentic AI frameworks 
• GPU or accelerator-aware systems
• Good communication skills in German are a strong plus (mainly required for teaching assistance)

About your workplace

The ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences is the largest university of applied sciences in German-speaking Switzerland, with around 15,000 students, more than 11,000 continuing education participants and over 3,700 employees.

We are committed to building diverse teams in order to promote equality and inclusion. We offer a flexible working environment that can be adapted to your individual circumstances.

School of Engineering

The ZHAW School of Engineering (SoE) is one of Switzerland's leading education and research institutions, focusing on future-oriented topics. With 10 Bachelor's degree programmes, one Master's degree programme, and a broad continuing education offering, it covers a wide range of qualifications. Fourteen institutes and centers ensure high-quality education, research, and development with a focus on the areas of energy, mobility, information, and health.

We are committed to building diverse teams to promote equality and diversity. We offer you a flexible working environment that can be tailored to your personal circumstances.

Why work at the ZHAW?

Here, you will find the space to shape developments and make a difference. We value respect and promote diversity. Discover what makes working at the ZHAW so special.

Any questions? You’ll find the answers here!

Do you have any questions about the application process?

Jocelyn Schaad
Recruiting Manager
jocelyn.schaad@zhaw.ch

Do you have any questions about the advertised vacancy?

Prof. Dr. Kurt Stockinger
Professor of Computer Science at Zurich University of Applied Sciences
kurt.stockinger@zhaw.ch

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