PhD Position in Categorical Methods for Computer Science Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

This PhD position at Tallinn University of Technology focuses on categorical methods for computer science, specifically the semantics and verification of reactive programs. The project aims to develop categorical semantics and program logics for reactive programs, which are characterized by infinite streams of inputs and outputs. These programs model machines that run indefinitely, including those with probabilistic behaviors, nondeterminism, and access to global state.

Concrete subprojects include exploring the categorical structure of reactive programs, enhancing expressivity to cover control flow and higher-order computations, and developing program logics informed by categorical semantics. The project also seeks to incorporate quantitative reasoning and metric enrichment for probabilistic programs, enabling approximate trace analysis and temporal property verification.

As a PhD student, you will conduct research in categorical methods, publish results in international peer-reviewed venues, and contribute to the Compositional Systems and Methods group at TalTech through seminars and reading groups. The university offers a modern research environment, strong international collaborations, and a multidisciplinary approach, positioning itself as a leader in digitalisation and software science research in the Baltic Sea region.

Applicants must hold an MSc degree in mathematics, computer science, or related fields, possess skills in mathematical proof writing, and have some knowledge of category theory. English communication skills are required, and a strong background in theoretical computer science and category theory is beneficial.

The application window is from June 1 to June 30, 2026. For further details on the admission process, consult the PhD Admission homepage. The position is supervised by Researcher Elena Di Lavore and Full Professor Pawel Maria Sobocinski, both from the School of Information Technologies, Department of Software Science, Laboratory for Compositional Systems and Methods.

Apply online using the provided link. Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and prepare your application materials accordingly.