PhD position on explainable DeepFake detection using Foundation models

Job description

The challenge

In the past decades, photographs and videos of events were regarded as reliable evidence for both news media and forensic investigations. However, recent developments in AI technology now make it possible, with minimal technological knowledge or skills, to create extremely convincing manipulated or synthesised images, audio and video data, often called DeepFakes.

This fact is a serious threat to the trustworthiness of news in the media and forensic processes in criminal investigations. Therefore, development of reliable methods to detect manipulations and distinguish bonafide from synthesised data is of utmost importance. In addition, especially for forensic investigations, simple detection is not sufficient. An explanation of the traces of manipulation and tools used for the synthesis or manipulation should be produced as well.

In the EU project DEFORM, 14 research institutes, universities and companies from 6 different countries aim to develop methods and tools for explainable detection of DeepFakes using Foundation models and other techniques.

At the University of Twente, we are looking for a PhD researcher who will work in close collaboration with the other partners on detection of fake videos using inconsistencies in video as well as audio.

Your profile

• An MSc degree in electrical engineering,

computer science or a closely related field.

• A solid foundation in computer vision, pattern

recognition, AI-related techniques.

• Hands-on interest in designing methods using

foundation models.

• You are curious, creative and motivated to solve

demanding measurement problems.

• You enjoy moving between fundamental

understanding, modelling, development and experimental validation.

• You work carefully and systematically and are

comfortable analysing measurement limitations and uncertainty.

• You communicate clearly in English and enjoy

working in an international, multidisciplinary team.

• You are willing to travel for project meetings,

work visits and conferences.

Our offer

• A fully funded, full-time PhD position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year and an intended start in autumn 2026.
• A dynamic research environment with enthusiastic colleagues and close interaction between measurement science and power electronics. A working culture that encourages independence, responsibility and close collaboration. A working culture that encourages independence, responsibility and close collaboration.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU);
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 3.204,- (first year) to € 4.051,- (fourth year);
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal work week of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis;
• Free access to sports facilities on campus;
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave

(both paid and unpaid);

• A tailored training and supervision plan supporting your scientific, technical and professional development.

Information and application

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before October 26, 2026 , and include:

• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasising your specific interest, qualifications, and motivation to apply for this position.
• A Curriculum Vitae, a publication list, if applicable, contact details of at least two references, and transcripts of your BSc and MSc studies, including grades.

The first round of interviews will be held on November 1, 2026. The selection procedure includes an interview and a short technical presentation.

For more information about this position, please contact dr. Luuk Spreeuwers via the following email address: l.j.spreeuwers@utwente.nl .

Screening is part of the selection procedure.

About the organisation

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) uses mathematics, electronics and computer technology to contribute to the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With ICT present in almost every device and product we use nowadays, we embrace our role as contributors to a broad range of societal activities and as pioneers of tomorrow's digital society. As part of a tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.