PhD position in Non-classical Logics through Proof Theory (1.0 FTE)

Applications are invited from excellent candidates for a fully-funded 4-year PhD position in Non-classical Logics through Proof Theory at the Fundamental Computing group at the Bernoulli Institute for Mathematics, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, University of Groningen.

The general aim in this position is to investigate the properties of non-classical logics that represent reasoning distinct from the familiar classical (boolean) logic. There are numerous examples of such logics e.g. intermediate, substructural, modal, linear, fuzzy, relevant logics, arising from computer science, philosophy, linguistics, and intrinsic motivations. Proof theory is the branch of Logic that studies a logic based on a formal (mathematical) notion of its proof system and its proofs. We are interested in all sorts of logical properties such as computational (un)decidability and complexity, and the discovery of new ones. Proof theory is prominent but we will draw on ideas from other areas such as automata theory, combinatorics, complexity theory, order theory, universal algebra. The research will therefore encompass topics in logic, discrete mathematics, and theoretical computer science. Of course, the candidate is not expected to be familiar with all these topics - a willingness to explore new areas is expected.

The PhD candidate will be supervised by dr. Revantha Ramanayake. The research project will be formulated in consultation with the PhD candidate and customised to take advantage of their background.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct original research leading to a PhD thesis, completed within the 4 years of the appointment and defended at the University of Groningen. You are expected to present your research results at seminars and international conferences, and to publish in conference proceedings and journals. You are expected to make a small contribution (at most 10%) to teaching e.g. as a teaching assistant or supervising student projects.

The successful candidate should have:

● a Master’s degree or equivalent (e.g. Honours degree) in logic, computer science, mathematics or another relevant field
● an excellent academic record, and a keen interest in doing fundamental research
● good communication skills in English (written and spoken).

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

● a salary of € 2,434 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,111 gross per month in the fourth and final year for a full-time working week
● a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus
● the ‘30% ruling’ tax benefit may apply to non-Dutch applicants
● a full-time position (1.0 FTE). The successful candidate will be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Renewal is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is expected. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement, and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering.

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 36,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global centre of knowledge.

The PhD candidate will join the Fundamental Computing group at the Department of Computer Science at the Bernoulli Institute for Mathematics, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence. The Fundamental Computing group conducts cutting-edge research on formal methods using concepts and theories from logic, type theory, category theory and discrete mathematics. A broader aim is to develop the foundations of computing and to improve the correctness and reliability of software.