Description

The Department of Information and Communications Technologies of the public Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, invites applications for a Tenure Track faculty position on Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models. 

The Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLM) have become essential for today's society as they represent the cutting edge in AI-driven communication technologies that are transforming industries worldwide. NLP equips engineers with the ability to create and implement systems that understand, interpret and generate human language, which is invaluable in many fields. For software engineers, understanding NLP techniques helps build advanced applications such as chatbots, translation tools, and other systems that facilitate better human-computer interaction, making it a key skill in the user-centric digital landscape.

Understanding NPL and LLM also enables ethical management of language-based AI systems. These systems have unique ethical and social implications, such as addressing biases in language models, ensuring data privacy, and maintaining transparency in AI-based decision-making. Researchers trained in NLP are better prepared to create AI applications that adhere to ethical standards and align with industry regulations, making a positive contribution to society. Thus, exposure to NPL and LLM fosters both technical skills and a responsible approach to AI, positioning engineering graduates as capable and ethical innovators in an increasingly AI-driven world.

In summary, professional skills in Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models include technical competence, problem-solving skills, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Our graduates students and our research have clear needs in Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models. The needs are urgent due to the resignation of a Tenure-Track professor in this area.

Qualifications

1. The candidate must have a solid track record and show promise of excellence in teaching. Teaching excellence will be highly valued, as will teaching experience in undergraduate and postgraduate subjects and courses related to “Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models”. If candidates move on to a second phase, they will be required to present a short test by teaching a class on the topic of this position at the undergraduate level, open to members of the Department, which will be assessed by the Selection Committee.
2. The candidate must have a solid research track record in the area of ​​“Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models” that fits well with the research needs of the department. For example, having publications in JCR Q1 indexed journals in conferences on topics of “Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models”, and to have previous experience collaborating with international researchers on competitive publications or research projects. Aspects of scientific excellence such as the impact of the candidate's publications, especially as first author, individual Marie-Curie grants, Serra Húnter Excellence programs and I3 Certificate will be highly valued. If candidates move on to a second phase, they will have to present a seminar on their research and their research program, open to members of the Department, which will be assessed by the Selection Committee.
3. The candidate must demonstrate potential to attract external funding and to secure partnerships or consultancies with the private sector. It will be positively valued if the candidate has participated in or led research projects with social and economic impact.
4. The candidate's ability to teach in other areas of the Department (in multimedia, biomedical engineering, machine learning, artificial intelligence, digital systems for audiovisual technologies, or data science) will be positively assessed.
5. It will be positively assessed if the candidate has previous professional experience abroad of at least two years; with special consideration of productivity during the time abroad.
6. Experience in dissemination and transfer of knowledge to other institutions, companies and the public sector will be positively valued.

Application Instructions

Applications must be received by 06.04.2025

Applications must include a cover letter (1 page maximum), links to common academic IDs (such as Orcid or Web of Science Researcher ID), a short curriculum vitae (4 pages maximum), as well as a teaching and research statement (1 page maximum each). Applicants must arrange for 3 reference letters to be submitted directly by the candidate. Ideally, these reference letters should address the suitability of the applicant for this specific position.

The Pompeu Fabra University is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from female candidates are especially encouraged. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

UPF promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation.