lss@glasgow.glasgow.UUCP (Dr. L. S. Smith) (01/28/86)
Research Assistant post in Dept. of Computing Science, University of Stirling, Would you like to work on an Alvey-funded post investigating an intelligent knowledge-based approach to the automatic implementation of formal specifications? YES! Then this is the job for you........ The aim of the research is to:- 1. develop an intelligent knowledge-based system as an automatic programming expert which accepts abstract (algebraic) specifications of computing objects, and which develops concrete representations of these, suitable for implementation as programs in conventional programming languages. The resulting program would be recognised as having the attributes of quality software. 2. 're-engineer' the programming knowledge required by the knowledge-based system into a preliminary theory of specification and program transformation. Our initial work has followed two strands: an experimental one in which a pilot system is being developed in prolog, using the 'blackboard' model for the underlying expert system; and a theoretical strand in which the mathematical basis is being developed to underpin the transformation techniques being used. Each strand has produced very useful results and work on the project has already generated considerable academic and commercial interest. The successsful candidate will join a small active team working in the environment of an expanding department with a growing reputation in the areas of formal specification, software engineering and functional programming. The appointment is for a period of two years, commencing as soon as possible after the closing date. Candidates should have a postgraduate qualification in Mathematics or Computing Science, but if you haven't, don't let that deter you from applying. Salary will be on the Research Assistant's 1A scale, in the range 7821-9266 pounds Sterling per annum (under review). Stirling University is claimed to have the finest campus in Europe, with the full range of commercial, sporting, and cultural activities to meet all your needs. Stirling is centrally placed to give you easy access to the Highlands and the North of Scotland. It is less than an hour away (by road or rail) from Edinburgh and Glasgow, both major cultural centres. Charles Rattray (telephone (U.K.) 0786 73171 extension 2671) will be happy to discuss the research project with you, and the activities of the department, and our plans for the future. For Further particulars, please write to Mr. R. G. Bomont, University Secretary, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland, U.K. to whom applications should be sent to arrive no later than Feb 21 1986