Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

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Computer Science
Location:  Jubilee Campus
Salary:  £30,487 to £45,585 per annum, (pro rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience (minimum £33966 with relevant PhD). Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.
Closing Date:  Sunday 04 February 2024
Reference:  SCI007524

Applications are invited for a three-year postdoctoral research position, to work with Professor Graham Hutton on the EPSRC-funded project "Semantics-Directed Compiler Construction: From Formal Semantics to Certified Compilers" (EP/Y010744/1).

Compilers are central to computing, translating programs written by people into code for machines.  However, there is currently an unbridged gap between the theoretical specification of a programming language, given by a formal semantics, and the code produced by the compiler.  Relating the two post hoc is possible, but difficult and rarely done. However, it doesn't have to be this way.

A more principled approach is to begin with a semantics for the language, and derive an implementation that is correct-by-construction. The project investigators (Graham Hutton and Dan Ghica) have independently developed two such methodologies, based on complementary approaches to semantics, but using different approaches to syntax. The aim of this project is to reconcile the two methodologies to develop scalable and reusable frameworks for constructing certified compilers from semantics.

Applicants are required to have, or expect to soon obtain, a PhD in Computer Science and/or Mathematics, and research experience in theoretical computer science.  Additional desirable attributes include experience in formal semantics, category theory, type theory and proof assistants.  Prior knowledge and experience of compilers and program verification is also valuable.

The successful applicant will work with Professor Graham Hutton in the Functional Programming Lab in Nottingham, a leading centre for programming language research.  The group currently comprises five academic staff, one research fellow, and ten PhD students.

This is a full-time (36.25 hours), fixed-term post for 3 years and is available from 1st April 2024. Arrangements for job share may be considered.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Hutton ([email protected]). Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Further details:

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