Research Fellow School of Computer Science 103237 Grade 7
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Job Location:
Birmingham - UK
Monthly Salary:
£ 36636 - 46049
Posted on:
21 hours ago
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Position Details
School of Computer Science College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Location: University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range 36636 to 46049 with potential progression once in post to 48822.
Grade: 7
Full Time Fixed Term contract up to September 2027
Closing date: 20th February 2026
Background
Undertake the role of Research Fellow on the EPSRC Grant Semantics-Directed Compiler Construction: From Formal Semantics to Certified Compilers at the University of Birmingham (a joint project with Prof. Graham Hutton at the University of Nottingham). The main aim of the grant is to construct compilers automatically from semantic descriptions of languages. The research will employ methods from operational and denotational semantics abstract machines as well as string diagrams and graph rewriting. Some knowledge of category theory would be useful but not essential. Being able to formalise the frameworks and procedures using mainstream proof assistants is desirable.
Role Summary
Carry out research within the specified research grant area theory of programming languages including the development of proof-of-concept prototypes
Write up research papers and contribute to open-source repositories
Contribute to generating further funding
Contribute to licensing or spin out deals or to the public understanding of the discipline
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
Develop the understanding of compiler and interpreter development from sound semantic principles
Focus on the use of string diagrams and graph rewriting in the development of compilers and interpreters
Disseminate research findings for publication research seminars etc
Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
Contribute to developing new models techniques and methods
Undertake management/administration arising from research
Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
Present research outputs including drafting academic publications or parts thereof for example at seminars and as posters
Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
Person Specification
First degree in theoretical computer science is required and normally a higher degree relevant to the research areas below or equivalent qualifications/experience:
-Programming language semantics
-Abstract machines
-Compilation and interpretation
-Category theory
-Graph rewriting
High level analytical capability
Ability to communicate complex information clearly
Fluency in relevant models techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010 and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Ability and willingness to learn new things to a high degree of proficiency
Ability to code at the level of implementing complex proof-of-concept compilers and interpreter prototypes
Familiarity with mainstream proof assistant is not required but it is recommended
Informal enquiries to Professor Dan Ghica email:
View our staff values and behaviours here
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Key Skills
- Bioinformatics
- Genetics
- R
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Research Experience
- Statistical Software
- Cell Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Data Analysis Skills
- Flow Cytometry
- Microscopy
