PhD Positions in Computer Science (Formal Methods) at University of Southern Denmark University of Southern Denmark in Denmark

The Centre for Formal Methods and Future Computing (FORM) at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Southern Denmark (SDU), invites applications for 3-year PhD positions in computer science with a focus on formal methods. The positions are based at SDU's Odense or Vejle campuses and are scheduled to start in late autumn 2026, with flexibility in the exact start date.

FORM is dedicated to advancing the formalisation of computing through open access and universal repositories. The group’s vision is to harness the combined strengths of humans and artificial intelligence (AI) for the rapid and reliable construction of digital systems, all grounded in rigorous mathematical foundations. The Computer Science Library (CSLib), developed using Lean programming technology, is FORM’s main instrument and is a global initiative with worldwide collaboration. FORM plays a key role in CSLib’s steering and technical leadership.

Research topics for these PhD positions include, but are not limited to, computational complexity, distributed systems, human factors, logic, programming languages, and security. The hosting environment is the Section of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Programming Languages (ACP), an elite cluster of research groups fostering collaboration, research excellence, and quality education. ACP and FORM offer opportunities for collaboration, personal growth, and mentoring. Current research areas span symbolic AI and formal methods (logic, theorem provers, type systems, categories), concurrent programming languages (choreographic programming, session types), distributed computing (cloud computing, microservices), Dev(Sec)Ops, software engineering (software product lines), human factors in security and privacy, post-quantum and embedded cryptography, and quantum programming languages.

The Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at SDU is known for its inclusive and international working environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong traditions for collaboration across research groups, departments, faculties, and external organisations. The department offers BSc and MSc degrees in Computer Science, a BSc in Artificial Intelligence, and an MSc in Data Science. More information about the department is available at https://imada.sdu.dk/.

SDU was founded in 1966 and currently has over 27,000 students, with almost 20% from abroad, and more than 3,800 employees. The university offers 115 study programs across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering. The main campus is in Odense, Denmark’s third largest city, which offers family-friendly living, a vibrant urban atmosphere, and easy access to beaches and recreational areas. Odense’s location on Funen provides convenient access to Aarhus and Copenhagen.

Employment as a PhD fellow is a 3-year salaried position governed by the collective agreement for academic staff at Danish universities. Appointment is subject to approval by the PhD School. The position may allow exemption from time registration based on managerial assessment. Salary and employment conditions follow national standards for PhD fellows.

Applicants must have an MSc in Computer Science or a closely related field, demonstrate interest in theory, development, or usage of formal methods, and be fluent in English. Academic reference letters must be submitted by the application deadline, as the university cannot contact referees directly. The application deadline is 16 August 2026.

International applicants are encouraged to visit Work in Denmark and the International Staff Office at SDU for information about moving to, working, and living in Denmark.

For further details and to apply, visit the application link provided.