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University: Utrecht University
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Department: Department of Information and Computing Sciences
Supervisor: Paige Randall North
Application Deadline: April 5, 2026About the University
Utrecht University is one of the leading research institutions in Europe, known for its strong interdisciplinary collaboration and commitment to innovative research and education. Located in Utrecht, the university brings together experts from diverse academic fields to address global scientific challenges and advance knowledge across disciplines.
The university’s Faculty of Science hosts several departments including Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Information & Computing Sciences, all working together to promote cutting-edge research and inspiring academic programs.
About the PhD Position
The Department of Information and Computing Sciences is offering a PhD position focused on categorical foundations of type theory. This research project explores the deep relationship between mathematics and computer science, particularly how category theory provides a mathematical framework for understanding programming languages and formal proof systems.
The position starts with an 18-month contract, which can be extended to a total of four years after a successful evaluation. The PhD candidate will work closely with Paige Randall North and collaborate with researchers in both mathematics and computer science departments.
Research Project Overview
Over recent decades, dependent type theory has become an important tool for programming languages that verify mathematical proofs and ensure correctness in software systems. Several advanced variants have been developed for specialized mathematical domains, including homotopy type theory, cubical type theory, and simplicial type theory.
These modern developments highlight the strong connection between mathematical logic and computer science. The project aims to better understand this relationship by building a general theoretical framework for type theories using category theory.
The research will investigate how structured mathematical categories correspond to different forms of type theory and how these connections can be expanded for domain-specific variations.
Research Focus Areas
The PhD project offers flexibility, allowing candidates to shape their own research direction within the broader theme of categorical foundations of type theory. Potential research topics include:
Categorical Semantics for Type Theories
Investigating how advanced tools from enriched category theory can be used to model and interpret modern type theories.
Unified Theoretical Framework
Developing a common framework that connects different semantic interpretations of type theories within category theory.
Formalization of Mathematical Structures
Formalizing parts of the research using proof assistants or formal verification systems to strengthen theoretical results.
Computational Implementation
Implementing aspects of the developed theories in programming languages or formal systems to demonstrate practical applications.
Research Environment
The PhD candidate will be jointly employed by the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Information and Computing Sciences at Utrecht University.
Within the mathematics department, the candidate will join the Logic Group, which focuses on research areas such as:
- Type theory
- Category theory
- Formalization of mathematics in proof assistants
- Educational applications of proof verification tools
The department also hosts an active Homotopy Theory research group, specializing in higher category theory and related mathematical fields.
In the Information and Computing Sciences department, the candidate will collaborate with the Software Technology Group, which studies functional programming languages such as Haskell and Agda, with applications in software testing, parallel computing, and security.
Key Responsibilities
The selected PhD candidate will:
- Conduct independent and collaborative research in categorical foundations of type theory
- Participate in academic activities such as seminars and workshops
- Publish research results in scientific journals and conferences
- Engage with the broader research community in the Netherlands and internationally
- Contribute to teaching activities in mathematics or computer science
Required Qualifications
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline
- Strong background in category theory
- Familiarity with dependent type theory
- Interest in advanced theoretical research combining mathematics and computer science
- Excellent English communication and writing skills
Salary and Benefits
The position offers competitive employment conditions based on the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU).
Key benefits include:
- Starting monthly salary of approximately €3,059, increasing annually up to €3,881 in the fourth year
- 8% holiday allowance
- 8.3% year-end bonus
- Pension scheme and partially paid parental leave
- Flexible employment conditions and professional development opportunities
Employees at Utrecht University also have access to additional programs that support career development, training opportunities, and cultural or sports activities.
Academic Environment and Culture
The Faculty of Science at Utrecht University promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research. Scientists from different departments work together on strategic themes such as sustainability, life sciences, social institutions, and youth development.
The university aims to create an inclusive academic environment where researchers from diverse backgrounds can collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to global scientific progress.
Application Process
Candidates interested in the position should prepare the following documents:
- Motivation letter explaining research interests and suitability for the project
- Curriculum Vitae
- Contact information for at least two academic references
All applications must be submitted before the deadline through the official recruitment system.
About Utrecht
Utrecht is one of the most vibrant academic cities in the Netherlands. Known for its historic architecture, international research community, and dynamic student population, the city offers an inspiring environment for doctoral researchers and scholars.
This PhD opportunity provides an excellent chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in mathematical logic, category theory, and programming language theory, helping shape the future foundations of computer science and formal mathematics.
Apply now at: https://www.uu.nl/en/organisation/working-at-utrecht-university/jobs/phd-position-in-categorical-foundations-of-type-theory
