Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (Computer Science)
This new full time post is available from 1 January 2024 on a fixed term basis until 31 December 2025. This role offers the opportunity for hybrid working – some time on campus and some from home.
Summary of the role
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate that wants to apply formal methods for building correct, safe, and secure systems. The post is part of the growing Security and Trust of Advanced Systems Group (https://computerscience.exeter.ac.uk/cyber-security/). The group has a broad expertise in developing and applying formal methods tools in general and in working and extending Isabelle/HOL in particular.
The advertised position is part of the EPSRC funded project “Secure Smart Contracts with Isabelle/Solidity” and is available from 01/01/2024 to 31/12/25. The successful applicant will work with the PI Dr. Diego Marmsoler on the development of tools and techniques for the verification of Smart Contracts. This includes the development of a calculus for the verification of smart contracts, its implementation in Isabelle/HOL, as well as applying it for the verification of real-world smart contracts. For more information about the project please visit the project website: https://marmsoler.com/projects/isabelle-solidity/
About you
The successful applicant will possess a relevant PhD (or be nearing completion) or an equivalent qualification/experience in computer science. They will be able to demonstrate good knowledge of the broader area of formal methods. This might include a background in formal specification languages (e.g., TLA, Z, B); computation logic (e.g., HOL); Model checking (e.g., NuSMV, PRISM, SPIN), SAT or SMT solvers (e.g., CVC5, Z3, SPASS); verification tools (KeY, SPARK), or interactive theorem provers (e.g., Coq, Agda, Lean, Isabelle). Applicants will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, and communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically.
Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.
The University of Exeter
We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and in the top 150 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 and the 2022 Academic Ranking of World Universities released by Shanghai Rankings).
Our research income in recent years means we’re the fastest growing UK Research University with some of the world’s most influential scientists, and we seek to answer some of the most fundamental issues facing humankind today. More than 99% of our research is of international quality and our world-leading research impact is growing faster than any other Russell Group university (2021 Research Excellence Framework). We are using the power of our education and research to create a sustainable, healthy and socially just future. Our shared purpose and vision continually moves us forward to make a difference to our people, our communities, our partners and the world around us. Read about our world leading research on Green Futures and how we are transforming education for a changing world. We are located in a beautiful part of the country and Exeter (a fast growing tech hub) is one of only a few UK cities to have been designated as a UNESCO City of Literature
Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment
Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented within our working community. Reasonable adjustments are available for interviews and workplaces.
With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment where our diversity is celebrated and valued as a major strength. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all members of our community are supported to thrive; where diverse voices are heard through our engagement with evidence-based charter frameworks for gender (Athena SWAN and Project Juno for Physics), race equality (Race Equality Charter Mark), LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion) and as a Disability Confident employer.
Benefits
We offer some fantastic benefits including:
Further information
Please contact Diego Marmsoler, e-mail d.marmsoler@exeter.ac.uk.
Interviews are expected to take place at the end of November.