Postdoctoral Associate in Mathematical Foundations of Generative AI

About the Position

The School of Mathematics at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities invites applications for a postdoctoral position. Candidates are expected to have received a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related field by the start of the appointment. The anticipated start date is summer 2027, with the possibility of an earlier start by mutual agreement. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year, subject to satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Yulong Lu on research projects related to the mathematical and computational foundations of generative artificial intelligence. Potential research topics include the mathematical and statistical analysis of modern generative models, particularly diffusion- and flow-based models, as well as their applications to scientific computing and other scientific domains. Candidates with strong backgrounds in stochastic analysis, numerical analysis, sampling methods, optimization, scientific computing, or related areas, together with research experience in at least one class of modern generative models, are particularly encouraged to apply. In addition to conducting research, the successful candidate will teach two courses per year. The position is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the University of Minnesota and will provide opportunities for collaboration with mathematicians and computer scientists at Duke University and Yale University.

Employment Requirements: Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Mathematics, Statistics, or a closely related field by the start of the appointment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates with strong backgrounds in stochastic analysis, numerical analysis, sampling methods, optimization, scientific computing, or related areas, together with research experience in at least one class of modern generative models, are particularly encouraged to apply.

The School of Mathematics, located in the heart of the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering, features over sixty faculty and more than 120 graduate students engaged in world-class research across all areas of mathematics. Its core educational mission is to provide students with the analytical skills to thrive in the modern workplace, while fostering an inclusive and inspiring environment where everyone can achieve their full potential.

The School is supported by numerous centers which extend the research and outreach missions of the department, including the Institute for Mathematics and its Applications, the Minnesota Center for Financial and Actuarial Mathematics, the Minnesota Center for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, and the School of Mathematics Center for Educational Programs which houses UMTYMP - our program for mathematically talented Minnesota youth.

Pay Range: $69,000 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Application instructions:

Applications and all supporting materials must be submitted electronically through MathJobs (https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/list/28797). Applicants must include the following: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a research statement, and three letters of recommendation. Applicants may also provide an optional statement to describe their contributions in other aspects of their candidacy, such as service and outreach efforts. Reference letter writers should be asked to submit their letters online through mathjobs.org.

Application Requirements:

Applications will be reviewed beginning December 15, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit:

• A curriculum vitae;
• A research statement describing prior and current research, future research plans, and specific interests related to the project;
• At least four letters of recommendation, including at least one letter addressing teaching.

Prospective candidates are welcome to contact Dr. Yulong Lu at yulonglu@umn.edu. Please include "Postdoc Position" in the subject line and briefly describe any overlap between your research interests and the topics of the position. Applications and all supporting materials must be submitted electronically through MathJobs.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.