LEGO® Chair of the Centre for Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at SDU Vejle – Full Professor Positions

The new campus in Vejle of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is set to become an international IT research and educational environment. The campus will consist of two research centres aiming to be world-class research environments in computer science, artificial intelligence, interactive technology, and software engineering. SDU Vejle is a collaboration between the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science and the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute at SDU. The campus will be based on the philosophy of these well-established research environments where curiosity, creativity, and innovation thrive. SDU Vejle will welcome its first students in 2026. By 2032, we aim for the Vejle campus to host over 1200 Danish and international students, employ more than 90 academic staff members, and annually graduate 300 skilled and highly sought-after IT students. Learn more about the new campus in Vejle here. 

The preferred starting date is August 1st, 2025 or as soon as possible after.

SDU Centre for Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
The aim of the centre is to be an interdisciplinary hub covering a wide range of core topics in computer science and artificial intelligence. Its academic focus is to conduct cutting-edge research on different dimensions of digital technology, ranging from the more technical (machine learning, cloud technology, hardware design) to the more theoretical (algorithmics, programming languages, symbolic AI), but also including topics at the intersection of technology and society (cybersecurity, explainable AI, machine ethics). By promoting the interaction between theory and experiment and in close collaboration with local business and industry, the research environment in the centre will be a key enabler and a cornerstone in the digital development of the local and national society.

The vision of the centre is to:

• Create scientific breakthroughs and knowledge within the centre’s academic focus
• Educate highly sought-after computer scientists and AI specialists
• Establish valuable collaborations with local, national, and international industry

The mission of the centre is to:

• Educate talented and highly competent computer scientists and AI specialists that not only meet the needs of industry but also enrich and enhance society.
• Provide access for the communities surrounding the centre to the newest and most advanced knowledge and technologies available globally within the centre’s academic focus.
• Closely collaborate with industry on innovation, research, development, testing and deployment of new software and hardware-based technologies.
• Contribute to a human-centred digital transition, focusing on integrating digital and intelligent technologies into life and work while prioritizing the needs, experiences, and well-being of people.

What we offer
A LEGO® chair of the SDU Centre for Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence will form a core part of the team that will establish and build up the centre. In this position, you will:

• Build a world-class research centre, establishing an internationally recognized research group, driving innovation and attracting international talent. 
• Form part of the leadership team of SDU’s new Vejle campus, to build up the research and educational environment of the new campus.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of new international BSc and MSc programmes in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, teaching and mentoring the next generation of technology leaders. 
• Be a leading figure in fostering a harmonious workplace environment that is conducive to productivity, promotes creativity, and rewards and recognizes individuals and group achievement.
• Forge impactful partnerships with the dynamic industrial ecosystem in Vejle and the Triangle Region Denmark, translating research into real-world solutions.
• Foster strategic collaboration initiatives within SDU to drive interdisciplinary projects. 

What we expect
A LEGO® chair will be responsible for building up research and educational activities within computer science and artificial intelligence.

The successful candidate will have to fulfil the following key selection criteria:

Research:

• A distinguished research record in computer science or neighbouring fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering. 
• Proven ability to attract third-party funding.
• Demonstrated success in building and leading dynamic research teams.
• Strong track record of developing and executing research and innovation.
• A distinguished body of research within the focus areas of the centre.

Teaching:

• Extensive teaching and supervision experience across BSc, MSc, and PhD levels.
• The capacity for innovative design, coordination and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate subjects and create opportunities for students to be exposed to valuable industry experiences.

Partnerships/collaborations:

• An international reputation in leading research innovation and fostering collaboration with researchers from other organizations as part of multi-disciplinary teams.
• A track record of building and sustaining partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders in complex settings, including international research organisations and industry, and ideally also government, and community.
• An outstanding track record of industry-engaged research within the area of the centre.

Leadership:

• Demonstrated excellence in leadership and management to build strong, sustainable organizations and teams embedding change and driving performance in a large complex organizational environment.
• Strong track record of building and running research and innovation programs and processes.

Workplace description

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
At the University of Southern Denmark, we break boundaries and shape the future amidst significant challenges like climate change, demographic shifts, pandemics, cyber threats, and a changing global economy. We believe world-class research, education, and partnerships are essential for solutions, as major societal issues are complex and multifaceted. To create lasting, positive change, we must apply new, interdisciplinary knowledge. Upholding academic freedom is crucial for our staff and students to innovate and share discoveries.

The Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science is a leading hub for research and innovation, proudly hosting numerous prestigious ERC projects. It attracts and supports talented researchers who contribute to new knowledge and solutions for global challenges. With a focus on scientific excellence, the faculty fosters an inspiring environment for both established and emerging researchers passionate about making a difference.

The faculty is committed to academic excellence and student-centered learning. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, it promotes cutting-edge research addressing global issues. Modern facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories offer hands-on learning experiences. Strong industry ties ensure graduates are well-prepared for the job market. A supportive and inclusive environment encourages personal and academic growth. SDU’s focus on sustainability and social responsibility enhances its reputation as a forward-thinking institution. With an international outlook and diverse community, it strives to be a top choice for students worldwide.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (IMADA) is a thriving research hub at SDU’s main campus in Odense, with approximately 800 students and 200 staff, of which more than 60 are assistant, associate and full professors. Our current research includes: 

• Excellent research sections in: 
• Algorithms, focusing on online and approximation algorithms, graph and parameterized algorithms, string algorithms, data structures, combinatorial optimization, algorithmic cheminformatics, digital privacy and cryptography
• Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Programming Languages, focusing on choreographic programming, distributed computing (cloud, edge, IoT, microservices), Dev(Sec)Ops, information security, formal methods (concurrency theory, theorem proving, type systems, etc.), logic and knowledge representation, optimisation, and post-quantum and embedded cryptography.
• Data Science and Statistics, focusing on data science (data mining, data visualization, digital humanities), machine learning and artificial intelligence (deep learning, natural language processing, reinforcement learning, multi-agent systems, MLOps, operations research), statistics (extreme value theory, Bayesian inference, multivariate analysis), and bioinformatics (biological networks, multi-omics data)
• World-class facilities: Access to state-of-the-art local High-Performance Computing through CPU and GPU clusters at the SDU eScience Centre, as well as to national and European systems.
• Strong industry links: Collaborations with local, national, and international industries, fostering impactful research and innovation.

In addition to these research sections, the research environment at the department covers a wide area of topics in pure and applied mathematics and mathematical and IT didactics. Our department’s vibrant and collaborative environment is underpinned by its commitment to research excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement.

Application deadline: 7 April 2025 at 23:59 hours local Danish time 
Please see the full call, including how to apply, on www.sdu.dk