Apply Now
PhD Student (f/m/d) - Neuro-Symbolic AI

Date: 02/11/2026
Company: SAP


We help the world run better


At SAP, we keep it simple: you bring your best to us, and we'll bring out the best in you. We're builders touching over 20 industries and 80% of global commerce, and we need your unique talents to help shape what's next. The work is challenging – but it matters. You'll find a place where you can be yourself, prioritize your wellbeing, and truly belong. What's in it for you? Constant learning, skill growth, great benefits, and a team that wants you to grow and succeed.


What you'll build


You will be part of the Global Content Group and write an industry dissertation on the intersection of knowledge graphs leveraging the Resource Description Framework (RDF) and Large Language Models (LLMs), known as neuro-symbolic AI. You will develop and evaluate novel algorithms on public and company provided private datasets to derive novel insights for SAP and the research community.


What you bring


- M.Sc. (f/m/d) of a research university, preferred fields of study Data Science with a strong scientific interest in knowledge graphs, large language models, and neural-symbolic AI (dissertation focus) with a GPA better than 1.8
- Advanced Skills in Python, Java, ABAP
- Basic skills in containerization
- Knowledge in RDF and OWL
- Fluency in German and English
- Stellar communication skills, analytical thinking, teamwork across international teams
- Others: At least 4 years of work experience in the enterprise software industry
- Exceptional level of motivation and an excellent work attitude
- Knowledge in SAP systems and software
- Working from the office (St.Leon Rot) is required


Where you belong


The GCG engineering team consolidates SAP business knowledge, builds the Enterprise Knowledge Graph, and delivers it via Signavio, Business Accelerator Hub, LeanIX and an internal AI platform. We are a team of tech experts and researchers passionate about data management and AI innovation.


Please keep in mind that the hiring for PhD candidates at SAP demands a previous approval by the university as well as the supervising professor.


Your set of application documents should contain a cover letter, a resume in table form, school leaving certificates, certificate of enrollment, current university transcript of records, copies of any academic degrees already earned, and if available, references from former employers (including internships). Please also describe your experience and skills in foreign languages and computer programs / programming languages.


#PhD #Doktorand #Germany #Deutschland #Student


​

Bring out your best
SAP innovations help more than four hundred thousand customers worldwide work together more efficiently and use business insight more effectively. Originally known for leadership in enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, SAP has evolved to become a market leader in end-to-end business application software and related services for database, analytics, intelligent technologies, and experience management. As a cloud company with two hundred million users and more than one hundred thousand employees worldwide, we are purpose-driven and future-focused, with a highly collaborative team ethic and commitment to personal development. Whether connecting global industries, people, or platforms, we help ensure every challenge gets the solution it deserves. At SAP, you can bring out your best.

We win with inclusion
SAP’s culture of inclusion, focus on health and well-being, and flexible working models help ensure that everyone – regardless of background – feels included and can run at their best. At SAP, we believe we are made stronger by the unique capabilities and qualities that each person brings to our company, and we invest in our employees to inspire confidence and help everyone realize their full potential. We ultimately believe in unleashing all talent and creating a better world.

SAP is committed to the values of Equal Employment Opportunity and provides accessibility accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with SAP and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please send an e-mail with your request to Recruiting Operations Team: Careers@sap.com.

For SAP employees: Only permanent roles are eligible for theSAP Employee Referral Program , according to the eligibility rules set in the SAP Referral Policy. Specific conditions may apply for roles in Vocational Training.


AI Usage in the Recruitment Process

For information on the responsible use of AI in our recruitment process, please refer to ourGuidelines for Ethical Usage of AI in the Recruiting Process .

Please note that any violation of these guidelines may result in disqualification from the hiring process.

Requisition ID: 445340  | Work Area: Information Technology  | Expected Travel: 0 - 10%  | Career Status: Student  | Employment Type: Limited Full Time   | Additional Locations: #LI-Hybrid

Apply Now At SAP, we know success means different things to different people. Because we firmly believe that your success leads to ours, we instill an open and flexible culture, emb your personal passions, talents, and lifestyle while supporting your ambition throughout your career. We want people who think big and dream big. And most of all, we want people who are passionate about helping businesses – and the world – run better and improve people’s lives. Find us on