PhD position on interactive search in semi-structured and linked data sets

CWI has a vacancy for a PhD student in the internally funded project
Interactive Information Retrieval in Semi-structured Data Sets (i.e.,
this is a fully funded PhD position).

The project goal is to investigate interactive search in
semistructured data where retrieval algorithms can benefit from user
feedback on intermediate results to find the desired answer in
multiple steps. The user iteratively refines the system's attempts at
understanding the relation between the user's information need and the
structural elements in the data. Search is transformed into a process
where the system negotiates the solution strategy with the user,
potentially making much better use of his or her capacity to
understand intermediate results than the system could.

This leads to the following research questions:
  1. What characteristics of the query and underlying data set
determine which of the two approaches will lead the user to the
desired result in the most efficient way.
  2. How to design a system that combines both approaches and unifies
state of the art retrieval algorithms with effective interactive
search interfaces.
  3. How to evaluate the performance of such a system on
representative query sets and realistically large data sets.

The ideal candidate has recently completed an MSc degree in computer
science or a related field, with the ambition to attain a PhD degree.
The candidate is highly motivated to carry out research in information
retrieval and web technologies, with a strong interest in the role of
the user in novel information systems. Preference is given to
candidates with demonstrated passion and talent for the development of
original and innovative solutions.

The vacancy concerns a temporary research position for four years. The
project is carried out in the Information Systems (INS) cluster, and
brings together the research of Arjen P. de Vries (INS1) into entity
ranking with the research of Jacco van Ossenbruggen (INS2) into user
interface design for interacting with large linked data sets. The
salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the
"CAO-onderzoekinstellingen". Besides the salary, CWI offers attractive
and flexible terms of employment, like a collective health insurance,
pension-fund, and initial help with housing for foreigners.

Applications including a Curriculum Vitae with publication list, a
statement of research qualifications and interest should accompany the
application. Applications can be send by email before November 7th,
2008 to Prof.dr.ir. Arjen P. de Vries, e-mail: arjen.de.vries@cwi.nl
or to Dr. Jacco van Ossenbruggen, e-mail:
jacco.van.ossenbruggen@cwi.nl, who can also supply further information
about this position.

For more information see also: http://www.cwi.nl/~arjen/openings/

Received on Monday, 13 October 2008 20:26:34 UTC