Research Fellow – School of Computer Science – 103237 – Grade 7 Full-time

Research Fellow Position

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 £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822.

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2027

Closing date: 14th April 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: d.r.ghica@bham.ac.uk

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.