Postdoc Theory of Shortest Path Geometry in Complex Networks

Are you passionate about uncovering deep theoretical insights while working at the frontiers of network science? Do you enjoy crossing disciplinary boundaries, and want your work to make a real-world impact in areas like telecommunications, biology, and AI?

Job description

Join our ambitious research team as a postdoctoral researcher in the prestigious NWO VICI project on geometric approaches to shortest paths in complex networks!

The Project: A New Perspective on Shortest Paths

Shortest paths are central to a wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary challenges — from transportation routing and cell signaling to social dynamics and the spread of epidemics. Classical algorithms solve shortest-path problems efficiently on complete, static networks. However, many real-world networks (e.g., the Internet, protein interaction networks, social networks) are incomplete, dynamic, or both.

This project investigates a machine learning–based alternative to shortest-path inference, focusing on non-Euclidean embeddings of networks. The overarching goal is to understand and predict shortest paths when the network is only partially known or constantly changing.

We are building a dynamic and collaborative team of two Ph.D. candidates and two postdoctoral researchers. This position is specifically for a postdoc working on theoretical aspects of shortest-path geometry.

Your Role

You will develop theoretical insights into shortest paths in geometric network models, including but not limited to:

• (Soft) Random Geometric Graphs
• Geometric Inhomogeneous Random Graphs
• Random Hyperbolic Graphs

You will explore problems such as:

• Establishing geometric bounds on shortest-path alignment
• Reconstructing shortest paths from partial or noisy data
• Predicting deviations in perturbed or evolving networks

You will work closely with a second postdoc focused on inference, as well as with Ph.D. students in the team. Opportunities for co-supervision, application-focused collaborations (e.g., in Telecom and Bioinformatics), and international conference participation are embedded in the project.

What We Offer

• A full-time postdoctoral position (1 year, with potential extension for 1–2 years based on performance)
• A stimulating and inclusive research environment at TU Delft
• A prestigious, well-funded project with international visibility
• Opportunities for collaboration, conference travel, and interdisciplinary work
• Support for personal and professional development, including mentoring and supervision experience

We strongly believe that diversity enriches science. We therefore warmly welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive research culture where everyone can thrive and feel heard.

Who Are We Looking For?

We’re looking for a curious and motivated researcher with the following profile:

• A Ph.D. (or near completion) in network science, mathematics, theoretical computer science, or a related field.
• A strong background in graph theory and complex networks.
• Ideally, familiarity with geometric graph models and non-Euclidean geometry.
• Programming experience in Python, C, or C++.
• A track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Enthusiasm for presenting at conferences and workshops.
• A collaborative mindset and interest in co-supervising Ph.D. and M.Sc. students.
• Excitement for working on high-risk, high-reward research with real-world impact.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) 

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. 

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. 

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science 

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment. 

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science. 

Conditions of employment 

• Duration of contract is 1 year, with potential extension for 1-2 years based on performance.

• A job of 36-40 hours per week. 

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. 

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.  . 

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Maksim Kitsak, via m.a.kitsak@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 1 June 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter discussing your academic ambitions, your fit to the vacancy, and relevant research experience.
• Degree transcripts reflecting the coursework.
• The names and contact information of at least three relevant references.

You can address your application to Dr. Maksim Kitsak.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.