Postdoc Positions In Formal Methods And Programming Languages

The Centre for Formal Methods and Future Computing (FORM) at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Southern Denmark (SDU, Campus Odense or Vejle) invites applications for postdoctoral fellowships in formal methods and programming languages, with emphasis on theorem proving. The positions can have a duration of up to 4 years. The targeted starting period is after Summer 2026, with room for flexibility.

About FORM
FORM is a new initiative, created with the ambition to lead the formalisation of key areas of computing in a universal repository of knowledge and tools verified by proof assistants. Our vision is to unlock the combined potential of humans and artificial intelligence (AI) for the rapid and reliable construction of digital systems, guided by rigorous mathematical foundations. Our current main instrument to pursue this ambition is the Computer Science Library (CSlib) in the Lean programming technology . CSlib is a global effort carried out in collaboration with world-leading stakeholders, and FORM is a key founding player in CSlib’s steering and technical leadership .

Who we are looking for
We are looking for candidates who possess (or are nearing completion of) a PhD in Computer Science or Mathematics. An ideal candidate has a research track record at a high international level (reflecting the academic age of the applicant) and experience with mechanising theory and/or practice of computer science in proof assistants.

Fluency in English is required.

Questions? Curious to learn more about the position and environment? Please feel free to reach out to Professor and FORM Director Fabrizio Montesi ( fmontesi@imada.sdu.dk ) for more information.

Hosting environment
FORM is embedded in the Section of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Programming Languages (ACP) , an elite cluster of research groups that fosters collaboration, research excellence, and quality education. FORM and ACP offer ample opportunities for collaboration, personal growth, and mentoring. The section’s current research covers a wide range of areas and topics that include symbolic AI and formal methods (logic, theorem provers, type systems, categories, etc.), concurrent programming languages (choreographic programming, session types, etc.), distributed computing (cloud computing, microservices, etc.), Dev(Sec)Ops, software engineering (software product lines), human factors in security and privacy, post-quantum and embedded cryptography, and quantum programming languages.

The section is part of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, and other research sections at the department are

• Algorithms
• Computational Science
• Data Science and Statistics
• Geometry, Topology and Algebra
• Learning Experience Design

Our department offers an inclusive and international working environment with state-of-the-art facilities and strong traditions for collaboration across research groups, departments and faculties, and with other organisations like educational institutions, municipalities, and companies. The degrees offered by the department include BSc and MSc degrees in Computer Science, a BSc degree in Artificial Intelligence, and an MSc degree in Data Science. More information about the department can be found at https://imada.sdu.dk/ .

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) was founded in 1966 and now has more than 27.000 students, almost 20% of whom are from abroad. It has 3,800+ employees, and 115 different study programs in the fields of the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, health sciences, and engineering. Its main campus is located in Odense and is complemented by modern campuses in Kolding, Esbjerg, Sønderborg and, most recently, Vejle. Each campus contributes to SDU’s strong regional presence and close collaboration with businesses, public institutions, and local communities.

Discover more about SDU’s newest addition, the Vejle campus, at www.sdu.dk/en/vejle .

Application, salary etc.
Applications should include the following documents.

• Application letter, including information on previous employment with start and end dates
• Curriculum Vitae.
• List of publications (the candidate is welcome to accompany each publication with a line explaining their contribution).
• PhD diploma, or statement from supervisor on the expected completion of the PhD.
• MSc diploma.
• A recommendation letter, if available (otherwise, please insert contacts for recommendations in the CV).

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Shortlisted applicants will be assessed by an assessment committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the faculty. As part of the overall assessment, the applicant may be called for interview.
Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply online". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF or Word format. Each box can only contain a single file of max. 10 Mb. We strongly recommend that you read how to apply before you apply.

We recommend that as an international applicant, you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU .

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary (only available in Danish) and taxation .

To qualify you must have passed a PhD or equivalent. Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link " Apply now ". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.