Group guide for prospective members
How we work together in the group.
This guide is a short introduction to the research culture of the group. It is meant to help prospective PhD students and postdoctoral researchers decide whether we would be a good mutual fit.
What we value
We pursue ambitious, careful research at the intersection of machine learning, mathematics, and empirical work. Good research requires technical rigor, intellectual honesty, persistence, and the willingness to learn from results that do not go as expected.
We also value a professional, collegial environment. People should be able to ask questions, acknowledge uncertainty, challenge ideas with evidence, and disagree respectfully. High standards for research and mutual respect reinforce each other.
What you can expect
You can expect serious engagement with your research, candid and constructive feedback, fair credit for your contributions, and support for your development as an independent scientist. Supervision is adapted as researchers gain confidence and ownership; collaboration and additional mentorship can be useful when a project calls for different expertise.
There is no expectation of constant availability or of responding outside normal working hours. The goal is sustained, high-quality work, not performative busyness.
What the group expects
Group members are expected to take ownership of their work, prepare carefully for discussions, engage seriously with feedback, communicate professionally, and contribute to a reliable and respectful research environment. Research integrity includes understanding, checking, and taking responsibility for everything one shares, including work created with the help of AI tools.
Read the detailed guidance
The following documents provide the full detail behind these shared commitments:
- Advising Statement — approach to supervision, research independence, feedback, and professional development.
- Advisor–Advisee Expectations — shared responsibilities, meetings, feedback, authorship, and boundaries.
- Responsible Research Practice and Use of LLMs — research integrity and responsible use of tools.
- Professional Communication and Mutual Respect — constructive communication and ways to address concerns.
For shortlisted candidates, the interview includes a conversation about this guide. The purpose is to discuss working style and research culture openly, not to look for a prescribed answer.