PhD in Image Recognition Algorithms Applied to the Fossil Record The Departments of Biology (Palaeontology Unit) and Electronic Technology & Communications at the Universidad Aut�noma de Madrid (UAM) are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to apply for an FPI-UAM Fellowship, with estimated start date of September 1st, 2025. We are looking for a student with a strong academic background in programming and a genuine interest in Natural History and Evolution. Project Description This four-year PhD project aims to develop AI algorithms for fossil image recognition of the renowned fossil site of Las Hoyas (Lower Cretaceous, Cuenca, Spain; https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/full/10.1144/jgs2022-079), applied to both museum collections (https://mupaclm.es ) and in situ (fieldwork). The successful candidate must demonstrate: - Strong programming skills in Python. Good knowledge of Machine Learning techniques and visualization. Excellent communication and academic writing skills. -Proficiency in working with Linux-based systems will be considered an asset. A strong understanding of Deep Learning methods and frameworks, such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, will also be advantageous. - A well-justified interest in Natural History and Evolution - A willingness to engage actively in: Annual excavation campaigns Independent research with the fossil collections at the Museum of Palaeontology of Castilla-La Mancha (MUPA) Research will be carried out at the Universidad Aut�noma de Madrid, under the supervision of Profs. J. C. San Miguel-Avedillo (https://portalcientifico.uam.es/en/ipublic/researcher/261249 ) and J. Marug�n-Lob�n (https://aighol.wixsite.com/jmarugan). Eligibility Requirements - Applicants should hold a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a science- related field, along with a Master's degree related to Information and Communication Technologies. A strong academic background is expected in mathematics, programming in a high-level language, and machine learning - Academic record with an average grade > 7 (on a 10-point scale) - Proven skills in programming Application Materials 1. Full Curriculum Vitae 2. A brief reference letter/Email from a recommender 3. Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates 4. A motivation letter explaining your suitability for this position Applications will be assessed strictly based on eligibility and fit. Final decisions will be made after an online interview. IMPORTANT: Please consider the short time to apply (there will be time to fix errors after deadline, but CV must be presented and it will NOT be possible to alter any original content, only format). Key Dates - Application deadline: 13/07/2025: PLEASE CONSIDER OFFICIAL IS 23:59h July 15th 2025 - Fellowship duration: 48 months - Expected start date: September 1st 2025 Submission Please send your application as a single PDF file to: - Prof. J. C. San Miguel-Avedillo juancarlos.sanmiguel@uam.es - Prof. J. Marug�n-Lob�n: jesus.marugan@uam.es For more information on FPI-UAM grants (Spanish): https://www.uam.es/uam/investigacion/oferta-empleo/contrato-predoctoral-ia-2025 Jesus Marugan Lobon (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)