PhD Position Formal Methods for Software Engineering with Trust

Job description

Were you ever curious why certain languages are designed the way they are? Do you want to bridge the gap between programming languages research and industry needs?

If you’re excited about tackling both deep research challenges and real-world software problems, this project is for you.

We are seeking a PhD student who values the strengths of formal reasoning while recognizing its current limitations — someone driven to explore solutions that go beyond what verification alone can achieve.

This PhD project focuses on developing analysis and program repair techniques that enhance software interoperability. For example, how can we restore Rust’s safety guarantees when integrating it with legacy C code? More generally, how can we ensure that software components — written in different languages and by different authors, such as human developers and AI assistants — interact correctly, safely, and securely?

The project aims to create synergy between verification, analysis, and testing to repair faulty software and, in turn, enhance software trustworthiness.

About the environment

We want to create things – and grow in ways – that stay solid even when everything else is shifting. We value collaboration, and we also respect the need for focused, independent work. Academia gives us space to explore, but we also like teaming up with industry for fresh ideas and real-world impact. We encourage curiosity and initiative, and always prioritize kind, clear communication, for we believe novelty springs from connection and an open mind.

Job requirements

• A Master’s degree in computer science.
• Knowledge and interest in programming languages and formal methods.
• Strong software engineering skills.
• Curiosity and agility to understand and navigate new technologies when applicable.
• Has an inclusive mindset and values good communication.
• Effective at managing time and other resources.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Conditions of employment

• Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
• The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Relocation support

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact dr. Andreea Costea, via m.a.costea@tudelft.nl.