Prof. Istvan David (McMaster University) and Prof. Eugene Syriani (University of Montreal, Canada) are offering a fully funded dual-degree PhD position to a highly ambitious student at the intersection of AI and Model-Driven Engineering (MDE), with a start in September 2026.
Scope of research
We are building the next generation of engineering tools that combine the power of AI with the rigour of formal modeling.
This is a project that builds organically on the two supervisors’ previous and ongoing works.
Details upon inquiry.
Setup
▸ Earn a PhD degree from not one but two globally renowned universities: McMaster University and the University of Montreal, a setup known as a cotutelle: https://gs.mcmaster.ca/current-students/visiting-and-exchange-students/cotutelle.
▸ Such a setup requires that you meet the PhD requirements of both institutions, but since these are very similar at the two universities, this is more of an opportunity than a challenge.
▸ You will be jointly supervised by Prof David and Prof Syriani.
▸ You will spent part of your time in the lively Toronto-Hamilton area and the uniquely vibrant city of Montreal.
Expected Background
▸ Master’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or related area
▸ Rock-solid software development skills: at least Python, preferably C/C++ (for accelerating Python) or Java
▸ Strong background in one of MDE or machine learning/AI, and good understanding of the other:
▸ MDE: model/graph transformations, experience with MT frameworks (VIATRA, Epsilon, ATL, etc), solid understanding of graph theory and discrete math
▸ ML/AI: DNNs, reinforcement learning, experience with ML frameworks (PyTorch, Tensorflow, Stable Baselines, etc). Note that this is not an LLM project!
▸ Sufficiently high GPA to help you obtain additional scholarships (preferably above 90%)
▸ Highly autonomous and proactive personality
What is not expected of you?
▸ Being a master of every subtopic. In research, we often learn as we go.
▸ Being a complete researcher on day one. We all have to start somewhere. You will receive intensive training tailored to your specific needs and goals, will work closely with your supervisors, and will be called to collaborations with our peers in and outside of the lab.
▸ Prior publications, while certainly a plus, are not expected. Both supervisors are experienced authors who will get you published and teach you the art of scientific writing.
As a PhD student, you will…
▸ Conduct world-class scientific research in the frontiers of computer science
▸ Develop novel methods, techniques, and tools for the design and development of complex engineered systems
▸ Become part of a lively and particularly active research network, and collaborate with international peers
▸ Publish at top venues and in top journals of our field
▸ Attend top international conferences to present your work (financed by our labs)
Expected Research OUTPUT
There is no predetermined minimum number of papers you have to produce annually.
However, it is fully expected that you dedicate your time to conducting impactful research and to mastering key scientific methods. You will be part of not one but two world-class research environments at McMaster University and University of Montreal, both filled with ambitious yet friendly and inclusive folks.
We are looking for someone who can enjoy the process of exploration despite all its uncertainty, as well as the process of knowledge creation and communication (including written publication and oral presentations).
Application process
Take the following two steps in any order:
- Apply here: https://applygrad.mcmaster.ca/portal/start_your_app. Indicate Dr. David’s name in your application.
- Reach out to Dr. David and/or Dr. Syriani directly with a CV, and in your email, please outline your background and why you see yourself a good candidate for this position.
About YOUR FUTURE UniversitIES
McMaster University. One of the four Canadian Universities consistently ranked in the world’s top 100 in the Time Higher Education rankings, McMaster has a proud tradition of academic and research excellence, evidenced by the achievements of our best and brightest whose ranks include three Nobel Prize winners, global business leaders, technological innovators, prominent politicians, public intellectuals, philanthropists and performers. The McMaster community includes 21,441 undergraduate students, 3,519 graduate students, 1,413 full-time faculty, and 170,654 alumni, based in 137 countries worldwide.
The Department of Computing and Software is home to cutting-edge research in many areas of computer science, software engineering, and mechatronics.
University of Montreal (Université de Montreal). With its affiliated schools, Polytechnique Montreal (engineering), and HEC Montreal (business), University of Montreal is one of the largest university complexes in North America. Many renowned laboratories were born at University of Montreal, including: MILA, the world’s leading university research centre in deep learning; the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), one of the most productive in its domain; and the Centre de recherche en droit public (CRDP), the most comprehensive public-law research centre in Canada. With its thirteen faculties and its affiliated schools, University of Montreal has 67,000 students and 2,300 professors and researchers. Situated on the northwestern flank of Mount Royal, one of North America’s finest urban parks, University of Montreal proudly reflects the welcoming multicultural city after which it is named. One out of every four students at University of Montreal comes from outside Canada. Montreal is known for its cultural vitality, safety and low cost of living.