Postdoc in Locally Recoverable Codes and Algebraic Curves over Finite Fields - DTU Compute

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher in Mathematics with experience in algebraic coding theory (locally recoverable codes or related constructions) and algebraic curves over finite fields. 

The position (2 years, starting in April 2026) is part of the 5 years project CREATE “Algebraic curves in information theory: a treasure yet to discover” financed by the Villum Foundation.

By joining the project team, you will become part of an international research collaboration, with plenty of visits from researchers from all over the world and travel possibilities, which aims to exploit the full potential of algebraic curves in the construction and classification of locally recoverable (LRC) codes.

The goal of CREATE is developing in a multidisciplinary team the most suitable algebraic curves theory (and to construct the most suitable algebraic curves) that would give the best error-correcting codes, generalizing and eventually classifying the existing LRC codes. Your role in the project would be that of providing extra expertise in coding theory to the team, complementing the current competences of the members of the algebra group at DTU and supporting the current research on algebraic curves over finite fields.

Some possible research topics during this Postdoc position are:

• Constructing of new algebraic curves, with many points and/or symmetries and new algebraic curves theory for the purpose of constructing new LRC codes.
• Finding new ways for using algebraic curves to construct locally recoverable codes and/or to classify the existing ones
• Analysing other type of storage related problems (e.g. DNA storage) and understanding whether a connection with algebraic curves can be created.

Responsibilities and qualifications
If you join this project, you will become a member of the DTU Compute Section for Mathematics, and more specifically of the Algebra group. Our group is specialized in applied algebra, with special attention to algebraic curves theory. Within the CREATE project, the DTU team’s research focuses on exploiting the full potential of algebraic curves in coding theory, and more specifically in connection with MRD and locally recoverable codes (LRC).

Your main tasks within this project will be to:

• closely collaborate with the DTU faculty members (Maria Montanucci and Peter Beelen) and the current PhD student of the team (Marie Frank vom Braucke) and the other Postdoc involved in the CREATE project (Anina Gruica);
• study the theory of algebraic curves and their automorphisms to the extent of being able to understand their connection with LRC codes;
• actively contribute to the discussions with the project partners (with reciprocal visits during the employment period) and work towards the project deliverables;
• explore new methods construct LRC codes from algebraic curves and/or generalizations of them. You will play a key role in developing the necessary theory and providing the basic coding theory tools to the team.

You will also have the opportunity to co-supervise MSc or BSc student projects related to your research.

To be considered for the position, you need to document your research experience with a publication list showing your previous work on the topic, preferably as important part of the focus of your PhD studies.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a relevant PhD degree. 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years, and the preferred starting date is 1 April 2026 or according to mutual agreement.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
For further information and inquiries, please contact Maria Montanucci. 

You can read more about DTU Compute at www.compute.dtu.dk and about the Section for Mathematics here and about the Algebra group at DTU and the corresponding research at the Algebra group webpage https://algebra.compute.dtu.dk/.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 27 February 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 
• Recommendation Letters (up to 3)
• List with up to 5 publications of relevance for the project, with a description of their interaction with the aims of the position mentioned above

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Compute
DTU Compute – Department of Mathematics and Computer Science – is an internationally recognised academic environment with over 400 employees and 10 research sections. We broadly cover digital technologies within mathematics, data science, computer science, and computer engineering, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, internet of things (IoT), chip design, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, social networks, fairness, and data ethics. Our research is rooted in basic research and centres on mathematical models of the physical and virtual world, as a basis for the analysis, design, and implementation of complex systems. We focus on ensuring that our research results contribute to creating a better society by supporting areas such as health, green transition, energy supply, and life science. We collaborate with universities, public and private organisations, and companies in Denmark and abroad, and through DTU’s startup ecosystem, we encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. We have a strong ethical, human, and sustainable approach that ensures integrity in our work. Therefore, we strive for and take responsibility for driving the democratisation of digital technologies, so that everyone has the opportunity to actively participate in the development, and we ensure a continued open, democratic, and inclusive society for the benefit of all. At DTU Compute, we value diversity, inclusion, and a flexible work-life balance. Read more about us at www.compute.dtu.dk.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.