Senior Research Associate in Programming Languages

The role

This role involves leading research under the supervision of Professor Meng Wang on the EPSRC project Complex Semantics for Higher Order Abstract Syntax. The project builds on our recent papers: Contextual Embeddings: Implementing Bound Variables through Instance Resolution (PLDI 2026) and Embedding by Unembedding (ICFP 2023). It aims to further develop the theoretical foundations of this framework while also promoting its wider adoption.

The post holder will be part of the Bristol Programming Languages research group. The group has a strong international reputation and a wide range of interests, including functional programming, program verification and analysis, program synthesis, and type theory. It is well-connected with leading research groups worldwide, with research supported by major funding agencies and industry leaders.

More information about the group can be found here: https://plrg-bristol.github.io/

The post holder will enjoy the freedom to pursue research in any of the above-mentioned area and will be part of a dynamic team of 5 academics and several PDRAs and PhD students. You will enjoy excellent support both academically and financially to advance your research career. In turn, you are expected to conduct high quality research and contribute to the dynamic research culture. The employment is initially for two years with the possibility of extensions.

What will you be doing?

Research Responsibilities

• Conducting high quality research in programming languages and related fields.
• Leading small research groups.
• Writing bids for funding.
• Initiating publications arising from research results.
• Presenting research result at conferences.
• Identifying new research activities.
• Collaborating with industrial partner.

Administration Responsibilities

• Facilitating the running of the research group.
• Representing and advocating the research area.
• Mentoring junior researchers.

You should apply if

You have:

1. Relevant Experience, Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• An excellent publication track record.
• An excellent understanding of programming languages or related fields.
• Knowledge of a broad range of programming language techniques.
• The ability to organise your own work with minimal supervision and prioritise work to meet deadlines.

Desirable

• A network of existing industrial partners/contacts.
• Knowledge of functional programming.
• Experience with funding bids.

2. Relevant Qualifications

Essential

• PhD in Computer Science or a closely related discipline (for senior research associate).

Desirable

• Postgraduate Certificate in University Learning and Teaching

3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Essential

• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Strong organisational and teamwork skills.
• Experience of preparing high quality publications.
• Experience of presenting scientific results orally.

Desirable

• Experience of supervising research students.

Additional information

To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog:

https://engineering.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/category/engineering-includes-me/

Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 31/08/2028

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 26/05/2026

Shortlisting is expected to take place on 29/05/2026

Interviews will take place on 08/06/2026

For informal queries please contact: Professor Meng Wang (meng.wang@bristol.ac.uk).

Our strategy and mission

Available documents

• ACAD108562 - Senior Research Associate in Programming Languages - JD.pdf
• Faculty of Science & Engineering Further Particulars 2024-25.pdf

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