TU Delft invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Automated Code Refactoring within the FUSE Lab, a collaboration between TU Delft and Meta Platforms. This PhD track focuses on AI-driven automated code refactoring to improve software quality, maintainability, and performance at scale.
Important Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD Position in Automated Code Refactoring |
| Organization/Publisher | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) |
| Work Location | Delft, Netherlands |
| Research Field | Software Engineering, AI, Automated Refactoring |
| Funding Info | Fully funded, 4-year PhD |
| Application Deadline | January 4, 2026 |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Researcher Profile | PhD Candidate |
| Apply Button | Available on official TU Delft portal |
| Required Qualification | Master’s in CS, Software Engineering, AI, or related field |
| Required Experience | Research mindset, prototyping, engineering skills |
| Salary Details | €3059–€3881 per month + 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% year-end bonus |
Overview
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics & Computer Science (EEMCS) at TU Delft is offering a fully funded PhD position in Automated Code Refactoring as part of the Future of Software Engineering (FUSE) Lab. This research collaboration between TU Delft and Meta Platforms focuses on revolutionizing software engineering using AI and empirical data.
As AI reshapes engineering workflows, automated refactoring tools powered by large language models (LLMs) present new possibilities for reducing technical debt, enhancing maintainability, and improving code performance.
This PhD project aims to explore the capabilities, limitations, and real-world impact of LLM-driven refactoring at scale.
About the Research Track: Automated Code Refactoring
The Automated Code Refactoring track focuses on building and evaluating tools that use LLMs to refactor large-scale codebases. The ultimate goal is to enable:
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Reduced software complexity
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Improved maintainability and performance
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Lower technical debt
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Enhanced bug detection and fixing
Key Research Modules:
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Understanding practitioners’ expectations
Conducting surveys and interviews to map real-world refactoring needs and feasibility. -
Developing LLM-based refactoring models & benchmarks
Creating automated systems that can meaningfully transform code while preserving behavior. -
Designing autonomous refactoring agents
Developing agents capable of end-to-end refactoring workflows. -
Evaluating real-world impact
Running empirical studies on large industrial codebases.
The research aims to shape next-generation refactoring tools that benefit developers globally. This work contributes to open science and will be shared broadly with the software engineering community.
Required Qualifications
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Master’s degree in:
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Computer Science
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Software Engineering
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Artificial Intelligence
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Or related disciplines
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English proficiency (as per TU Delft’s PhD admission criteria)
Additional Preferred Requirements
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Strong research mindset (curiosity, critical thinking, data fluency)
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Ability to build prototypes and experimental systems
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Collaborative, supportive, and communicative personality
Applicants who do not meet every optional requirement are still encouraged to apply with justification.
About TU Delft
TU Delft is a world-leading research university known for engineering excellence and technological innovation. The institution is globally respected for tackling major global challenges in energy, mobility, climate, health, and digital technologies.
The university strongly values diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, creating an environment where researchers thrive.
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics & Computer Science (EEMCS)
EEMCS integrates three major disciplines that power modern technological advancements—from sustainable electrical systems to next-gen chips and AI-driven software technologies. With over 4,000 students and 1,000 staff, the faculty provides a vibrant, innovative research setting equipped with world-class labs.
Funding, Salary & Contract Details
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Duration: 4 years
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Initial 1.5-year contract + go/no-go assessment
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Followed by 2.5-year continuation
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Salary:
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€3059/month (Year 1) → €3881/month (Year 4)
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Additional Benefits:
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8% holiday allowance
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8.3% year-end bonus
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Health insurance discounts
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Flexible work schedules
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Work cost contribution
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TU Delft Graduate School enrollment
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Relocation Support
International candidates receive relocation guidance through TU Delft’s Coming to Delft Service, including networking events, cultural support, and a Dual Career Programme for partners.
Required Documents:
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CV
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Motivation letter
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Ranking of interests (if applying to multiple FUSE Lab positions)
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Statement on AI use in preparing application materials
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Thesis / research papers (or links)
More details about the FUSE Lab: via the official website.
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