PhD Candidate: Evidence-Driven Black-Box Checking

1. Introduction

Do you have a passion for designing and analysing algorithms? Are you an ambitious researcher with an interest in theoretical computer science, but also with an eye for practical applications? If so, join the Software Science Group as a PhD candidate!

2. Job description

Nowadays, so much new and complex software is being developed that there are not enough specialists to properly test all this software. As a result, companies need more time/resources for developing software, and their products (which we all use) may contain critical bugs. Therefore, there is a great need for algorithms for automatic software testing.

Your main responsibilities as a PhD candidate will be to conduct cutting-edge research within the NWO project Evidence-Driven Black-Box Checking (EVI). Black-box checking (BBC) is an approach in which, during testing, a state-transition model is constructed of the system under test using active learning algorithms. This approach allows testers to routinely find ’deep’ software bugs that are virtually impossible to find using other methods. The EVI project will tackle some fundamental open questions within the context of the BBC approach. In particular, your research will lead to methods to quantify the evidence for correctness of the learned hypothesis model based on the primary evidence obtained through testing. These methods will then allow you to develop smart algorithms for test selection and for deciding when to stop testing. It is expected that such algorithms will clear the way for broad application of BBC in industry.

As a PhD candidate, you will join a vibrant research group. The EVI project is a collaboration with the group of Dr Petra van den Bos from the University of Twente. Like other group members, you will have a limited teaching load (10%).

3. Profile

• You hold an MSc or equivalent degree in Computer Science, Mathematics or a closely related field, or expect to obtain such a degree this academic year.
• You enjoy working independently as well as part of a team.
• You are proficient in English and have good communication, presentation and writing skills.
• While programming skills and previous knowledge on algorithms and theoretical computer science are beneficial, the willingness to learn and extend your knowledge in these areas is more important.
  
  If you have not yet fully completed your Master's degree but are excited about this position, please do not hesitate to apply or to contact Frits Vaandrager. 

4. We are

The position is available in the Software Science group of the Institute for Computing and Information Sciences (iCIS) at the Faculty of Science. Our mission is to conduct world-leading research on the use of models for design and analysis of software, bridging the gap between theory and applications. We have expertise covering a broad range of topics concerning analysis of computer-based systems, mathematical foundations, and software construction.  We are a fun and diverse group involved in a wide range of international collaborations.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1,5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract).     
• You will receive a starting salary of €2,872 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,670 in the fourth year (salary scale P).
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus. 
• You will be able to use our Dual Career and Family Support Service. The Dual Career Programme assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. Our Family Support Service helps you and your partner feel welcome and at home by providing customised assistance in navigating local facilities, schools, and amenities. Also take a look at our support for international staff page to discover all our services for international employees.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to prof. Frits Vaandrager. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

The first interviews will take place on Monday 11 November. You will preferably start your employment on 1 February 2025.

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates.