PhD Candidate: Evidence-Driven Black-Box Checking

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!

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%).

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. 

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.

Radboud University

At Radboud University, we aim to make an impact through our work. We achieve this by conducting groundbreaking research, providing high-quality education, offering excellent support, and fostering collaborations within and outside the university. In doing so, we contribute indispensably to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. To accomplish this, we need even more colleagues who, based on their expertise, are willing to search for answers. We advocate for an inclusive community and welcome employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Will you also contribute to making the world a little better? You have a part to play.

If you want to learn more about working at Radboud University, follow our Instagram account and read stories from our colleagues.

Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.
We seek solutions to major societal challenges, such as cybercrime and climate change and work on major scientific challenges, such as those in the quantum world. At the same time, we prepare our students for careers both within and outside the scientific field.
Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.

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. 

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.