Research Associate on ERC Synergy VePaSS

Research Associate on ERC Synergy VePaSS

Department of Computer Science, Wolfson Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QD

Two Research Associate Positions - Automated Formal Verification, Stochastic Games, Algebraic Reasoning, Security

Two posts starting from October 20th 2026 to conclude October 19th 2027 with the possibility of renewal twice depending upon successful project review. Post offered at Grade 7 (£39,424 - £47,779 p.a.). Potential to under fill at grade 06RS (£35,681 - £41,636 p.a.).

The Department of Computer Science seeks to employ two Research Associates to work within a research group, reporting to Associate Prof. Mahsa Shirmohammadi and Vincent Cheval. The postholders will carry out research on the ERC Synergy project Verification of Probabilistic Security Systems (VePaSS). The VePaSS project develops new foundations and automated methods for the formal verification of security protocols with probabilistic behaviour.

By combining techniques from security verification, stochastic games, and symbolic computation, the project aims to overcome limitations of existing methods and enable the analysis of complex, inherently infinite-state protocols. Target applications include electronic voting and distance-bounding protocols.

Candidates will be expected to have a PhD’s degree (or be close to completion). They should have knowledge of one or more of the following topics:

• Computation of different notions of equilibria in Stochastic games
• Symbolic computation and Algebraic Reasoning
• Reasoning on equivalence of probabilistic security protocols
• Automated Verification through algorithm development.

Selection will also consider the ability to produce publishable research, communicate proposals and findings effectively, and represent the research group at meetings and conferences.

All applicants must complete an application form and submit a CV and supporting statement.

The closing date for applications is 31/08/2026.

We are a Stonewall Top 100 Employer, Living Wage and Mindful Employer, holding an Athena Swan Bronze Award, HR excellence in Research and Race Equality Charter Bronze Award.

Our staff and students come from all over the world and we proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diversity groups and champions, for example  , as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as the right to apply for flexible working and support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example shared parental leave.

Demonstrating a commitment to provide equality of opportunity. We would particularly welcome applications from women and black and minority ethnic applicants who are currently under-represented within the Computer Science Department. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.

Salary (£) : £39,424 - £47,779 per annum (including the Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per annum – pro rata for part-time)