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Delft University of Technology

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PhD Position in Formal Languages, Category Theory, and Type Theory Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Doctoral position with a 4-year employment period in principle, split into an initial 1.5-year contract and a subsequent 2.5-year contract subject to a go/no-go assessment and performance. Salary ranges from €3204 to €4051 gross per month based on full-time employment, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Includes health insurance discounts and a monthly work costs contribution.

Deadline

Nov 29, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

Delft University of Technology

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Keywords

Computer Science
Information Technology
Mathematics
Theoretical Computer Science
Formal Languages
Type Theory
Mathematical Logic
Category Theory
Semantics

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About this position

PhD Position in Formal Languages, Category Theory, and Type Theory at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

This PhD project explores how to systematically derive formal languages from their mathematical semantics, with correctness proofs connecting syntax and meaning. The research sits at the intersection of computer science and mathematics, especially category theory, type theory, programming language semantics, and formal verification using the Agda proof assistant.

You will work under the supervision of Dr. Benedikt Ahrens in the Department of Software Technology at TU Delft, within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science. The project aims to identify a general recipe behind recent constructions of type theories and related formal systems.

Eligibility highlights: a Master's degree in mathematics, computer science, or a related field; experience in category theory and theoretical computer science is preferred, though strong motivation to learn is also valued. Experience with proof assistants such as Agda, Rocq, or Lean is a plus. Strong English skills, independent research ability, collaboration across the maths/CS boundary, and willingness to contribute to teaching are expected.

Funding: this is a salaried doctoral employment position, offered for 4 years in principle. Salary ranges from €3204 to €4051 gross per month, plus holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus. TU Delft also mentions health insurance discounts and a monthly work costs contribution.

Application deadline: 29 November 2026. Apply online through the TU Delft careers portal and upload your CV, motivational letter, and Master's transcripts if available. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

Location: Delft, Netherlands.

Funding details

Doctoral position with a 4-year employment period in principle, split into an initial 1.5-year contract and a subsequent 2.5-year contract subject to a go/no-go assessment and performance. Salary ranges from €3204 to €4051 gross per month based on full-time employment, plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Includes health insurance discounts and a monthly work costs contribution.

What's required

Master's degree in mathematics, computer science, or a related field; experience in category theory and theoretical computer science such as type theory, logic, or programming language semantics, or strong motivation and ability to learn; proof assistant experience (Agda, Rocq, or Lean) is a plus but not required; enjoyment of precise mathematical reasoning; ability to work independently and collaborate across the maths/CS boundary; excellent written and spoken English; willingness to contribute to student supervision and teaching.

How to apply

Apply online via the application button by 29 November 2026. Upload your CV, motivational letter, and transcripts from your Master's degree if available. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

More information can be found here

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