max planck institut
informatik
informatik
The research group Fine-Grained Algorithms & Complexity, led by Professor Karl Bringmann, will be established at ETH Zurich in January 2026. The group develops fine-grained complexity theory, the area of theoretical computer science that proves conditional lower bounds based on conjectures such as the Strong Exponential Time Hypothesis, and designs efficient algorithms matching these lower bounds. With this combination of algorithm design and conditional lower bounds we aim to achieve (near-)optimal algorithms for problems from various application areas such as: discrete optimization, computational geometry, sublinear algorithms, graph algorithms, database theory, and string algorithms. More recently, the group is also exploring algorithm design for novel realistic machine models. The group is part of the Institute for Theoretical Computer Science at ETH Zurich, a vibrant research environment hosting several leading algorithms researchers, including Rasmus Kyng, David Steurer, and Vera Traub.
We invite applications for postdoctoral positions from candidates who either have experience in fine-grained complexity theory, or have expertise in any of the application areas listed above and are interested in exploring fine-grained approaches within their domain. We also welcome applicants with a strong background in designing and implementing algorithms for realistic machine models.
For full consideration, please send your application by December 7 to <myfirstname>.<mylastname>@inf.ethz.ch Late applications may also be considered. Your application should include a CV with a list of publications, a paragraph describing possible connections to the research group, names of potential recommendation letter writers, and if possible a research statement.
In addition, there is the possibility of a joint postdoc position with the Algorithms and Complexity group led by Prof. Danupon Nanongkai at Max Planck Institute for Informatics (MPI). Successful applicants will spend one year at ETH and one year at MPI, in any order. Interested candidates should submit separate applications to ETH (<myfirstname>.<mylastname>@inf.ethz.ch) and to MPI (here), and clearly state in their cover letter that these are simultaneous applications for a joint postdoc position. For more information see here.