Join the Cyberiad Lab

We welcome applications from motivated MSc and PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, research assistants, and visiting students interested in visual intelligence. Opportunities are available through Koç University, Hacettepe University, and our collaborations with the Koç University & İş Bank Artificial Intelligence Center (KUIS AI).

Research areas

Our projects span computer vision, machine learning, computer graphics, and multimodal artificial intelligence, with particular interest in:

  • Generative models for controllable image and video synthesis and editing
  • Diffusion models, transformers, GANs, and neural scene representations
  • Vision-language learning, multimodal foundation models, and compositional reasoning
  • Video understanding, motion modeling, and physically grounded visual intelligence
  • Computational photography, low-light and event-based imaging, and image enhancement
  • Omnidirectional and immersive media, including 360-degree audio-visual perception
  • Medical image analysis and cross-modal image synthesis

Expected background

Strong applicants usually have a background in computer science, computer engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, mathematics, or a related field. We particularly value:

  • Solid programming skills, preferably in Python and PyTorch
  • Foundations in machine learning, linear algebra, probability, and optimization
  • Experience with computer vision, deep learning, graphics, natural language processing, or signal processing
  • The ability to read research papers critically and communicate ideas clearly in English
  • Curiosity, independence, persistence, and an interest in collaborative research

Prior publications are helpful but not required. For MSc and undergraduate applicants, strong coursework and evidence of research potential are equally important.

How to apply

Please email both principal investigators with:

  1. A short introduction describing your research interests and why they align with the lab
  2. Your CV, including education, grades, publications, projects, and technical skills
  3. An unofficial transcript
  4. Links to a personal website, GitHub profile, publications, or project portfolio, if available

Use a clear subject such as “Cyberiad PhD Application — Your Name” or “Cyberiad MSc Research — Your Name.” Applications are reviewed according to available projects, funding, and supervision capacity.

Aykut Erdem

Associate Professor, Department of Computer Engineering, Koç University
Email: aerdem@ku.edu.tr
Office: College of Engineering, ENG 103, Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, İstanbul, Turkey TR-34450
Phone: +90 (212) 338-0916
Office hours: Tuesday, 10:00–11:00

Erkut Erdem

Associate Professor, Department of Computer Engineering, Hacettepe University
Email: erkut@cs.hacettepe.edu.tr
Website: web.cs.hacettepe.edu.tr/~erkut

Last updated: August 2026.