Research Engineer on Open Source Foundation Models

Job description

Join a groundbreaking project to develop a next-generation, open-source family of foundation models. Collaborate with leading companies, research labs, and experts to create transparent, efficient, high-performing models with novel capabilities that democratize access to AI. Apply now!
Snapshot
AI is reshaping our world. Now you get to shape AI. This large and ambitious project aims to develop a groundbreaking family of advanced, multilingual, open source foundation models based on solid research on model architecture, data quality, scaling, generalizability, finetuning, and safety. It combines the unique expertise of AI companies and top academic labs to create models with stronger generalization and finetuning capabilities, as well as enhanced transparency and safety. This will be an inclusive, community-driven project designed to and foster a new wave of innovation and scientific advancement.
The team
This position is hosted by the research group on Advanced Models by Open Research & Engineering (AMOR/e), providing an ideal environment for advanced AI research and collaboration. We are a team of scientists and engineers who aim to deeply understand, explain, and build AI systems. In addition to producing highly-cited research published at top academic venues, we build models and systems that are widely used by people every day. This work is also part of the OpenEuroLLM project, a large and talented team with world-class labs and experts across Europe, supported by well-known companies with advanced knowledge of LLM development.
The role
We are looking for an exceptional research engineer with a passion for AI and open-source development. In this role, you will design and build cutting-edge tools and software that will shape the future of foundation models, used by millions of people worldwide. We appreciate a strong empirical and theoretical understanding of deep learning.
Key responsibilities:
Contribute to one or more of the following tasks:

• Develop and implement scalable, efficient model architectures and fine-tuning techniques.
• Build robust data processing pipelines to enhance learning and generalization.
• Design and implement benchmarks and evaluation tools.
• Optimize (pre)training processes and contribute to the development of innovative LLM systems with real-world applications.
• Create tools for continuous evaluation, monitoring, and visualization of training progress.
• Collaborate with a team of researchers to tackle challenging technical problems and publish in top venues.

What we’re looking for
A motivated and skilled software engineer passionate about open source development and building high-quality, highly scalable AI systems as part of a team. Experience with machine learning, MLOps, foundation models, or LLMs is a strong plus.
Impact
This is your chance to make a real-world impact by advancing open-source foundation models while collaborating with leading AI researchers and innovative AI companies. Gain invaluable new skills as you help democratize AI, develop cutting-edge models, and create more efficient fine-tuning techniques that empower responsible innovation and drive scientific progress.

Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Computer Science or a related field.
• Strong programming skills in languages like Python and experience with ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow).
• A pragmatic, hands-on approach to creating efficient, scalable, and reliable software systems.
• Ability to communicate technical ideas effectively, e.g. through discussions, whiteboard sessions, written documentation.
• Proven experience with open source development and tools is a plus.
• A true passion for AI!

Conditions of employment

An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities.
We also offer you:

• Full-time employment for 1 year, with possible extension to 2 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 11, ranging from €4,925 to €6,685 gross base salary per month (full-time), depending on your knowledge and experience.
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

Employer

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.
Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.
As one of the largest and most dynamic academic communities in the Netherlands, the department Mathematics and Computer Science (M&CS) brings together more than 140 scientific staff, over 250 PhD and EngD candidates, and more than 3000 students. We collaborate closely with leading industrial partners in the Brainport Eindhoven region and with universities across the globe—creating a uniquely fertile environment for both fundamental breakthroughs and applied innovation.

Additional information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position, please contact the hiring manager: Joaquin Vanschoren, Associate Professor, j.vanschoren@tue.nl.
Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Ivan Slobozhan, Research Engineer, i.slobozhan@tue.nl.
Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.