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University of Exeter

PhD in End-to-End Verification of Security Protocols in Isabelle University of Exeter in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Available

Deadline

Dec 8, 2026

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Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Exeter

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Keywords

Computer Science
Information Technology
Mathematics
Cybersecurity
Cryptography
Proof Theory
Programming Language

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About this position

[£21,805 per annum stipend for 2026/7, plus funding of fees.]

PhD studentship at the University of Exeter on End-to-End Verification of Security Protocols in Isabelle.

This project investigates how theorem proving can be used to establish end-to-end guarantees for modern security systems. Rather than only verifying a security protocol in isolation, the research asks how to ensure that the checked representation faithfully captures the intended program, so correctness and security can be composed and reused.

The work focuses on verified translations between programs and the representations used by security protocols, using Isabelle/HOL as the main formalisation environment. A key application area is zero-knowledge proof systems, including STARK-style protocols. The project spans formal methods, programming languages, cybersecurity, and cryptography, with scope to shape the direction according to the student’s interests.

The doctoral researcher will develop and verify semantic models and compilation techniques in Isabelle/HOL, demonstrating that generated representations faithfully capture source-program behaviour. The longer-term aim is to connect these results with mechanised security arguments for the underlying verification protocol.

The project is suitable for candidates interested in formal verification, programming languages, cybersecurity, cryptography, compilers, or theorem proving. Prior experience with Isabelle or zero-knowledge proofs is helpful but not required.

Funding: The studentship provides fees plus a stipend of £21,805 per annum for 2026/7.

Location: University of Exeter, Streatham Campus, United Kingdom.

Deadline: 08 December 2026.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants should be interested in formal verification, programming languages, cybersecurity, cryptography, compilers or theorem proving. Prior experience with Isabelle or zero-knowledge proofs is useful but not essential.

How to apply

Apply via the University of Exeter funding/application link. Prepare your application in advance of the deadline and follow the university instructions on the project page. Submit before 2026-12-08.

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