If you are here you are probably considering getting a PhD in Theoretical Computer Science. While a think this is a great idea(!) I would like you to take some time reading this page to make sure you understand the advantages as well as the risks involved in getting into a PhD program.

What is a PhD

A PhD is the highest academic degree awarded by universities which only 2% of the world’s population possesses. When awarded, a PhD is acknowledging that you possess the skills and knowledge to engage with other international experts in your field. To earn one, you must demonstrate that you possess a deep knowledge of the field as well as having made a significant and original contribution to your area of study.

It could be one of your biggest life achievements and the most rewarding time of your life. But this is provided you can actually make constant progress throughout and make it to the end of the line. Otherwise, it can turn into one of your worst nightmares, a long-winded tunnel in which you cannot see the light at the end of it.

A PhD is, in my opinion, a 2-players game and the success of the game is essentially based on the relationship between the two players, the student and the supervisor. This point deserves more in-depth discussion, but as far as the PhD in Europe is concerned, I would go as far as saying that the supervisor is the most important part of your PhD.

The failure rate for PhD students is typically very high. I have run some calculations based on my own personal experience and the numbers tell me the failure rate can be in certain institutions as high as 50%. Of these, only about 3.5% land with a permanent position in academic research.

Thus it is crucial to find an advisor whose interests match yours and a person who you feel comfortable working with.

My Research

It is said (Dovier and Giacobazzi, 2020) that every scientific discipline fully defines itself when it is framed by a theory that highlights its limits and potential. For computer science, this happened in the 1930s, during a vibrant cultural and scientific period that addressed the foundations of mathematics, physics, and biology, long before the advent of the electronic computer.

Early computer science was strongly influenced by the work of mathematicians such as Kurt Gödel, Alan Turing, John von Neumann and Alonzo Church. There continues to be a useful interchange of ideas between the two fields in areas such as mathematical logic, category theory, domain theory, and algebra. Some, including myself, consider computer science to have a much closer relationship with mathematics than many other scientific disciplines, with some saying that

Computer Science is the Foundation of Mathematics (cit. Bob Harper)

Computer Science is, in fact, a branch of mathematics which studies the foundations of computability. It has little to do with computers. The fact that it has the word “Computer” attached to it is an unfortunate coincidence (or a cunning marketing device). Hence the following citation:

Computer Science Is No More About Computers Than Astronomy Is About Telescopes (cit. Edsger W. Dijkstra)

Category Theory, developed later in the 1940s as part of this foundational exploration, has since become a crucial framework for understanding and formalizing the mathematical underpinnings of computer science.

My research focuses in particular, in applications of category theory to (functional) programming languages, logics and type theories (e.g. Agda).

If you are interested in any of these topics or would like to learn more, please feel free to get in touch.

My Style of Supervision and What you can Expect

As a supervisor, I take a hands-on approach with close guidance when necessary or allowing you the space to work independently, depending on what you feel most comfortable with.

It is worth noting that a PhD in Europe typically spans 3 to 4 years, so it is essential to choose a topic that genuinely interests you and keeps you motivated, as this will help you maintain steady progress throughout your journey.

What I am looking for is not someone who knows everything from the outset, but rather someone with the enthusiasm and capacity to learn new aspects of mathematics, coupled with the emotional intelligence and social skills to collaborate effectively with others, and the openness to follow guidance when needed. Independence is also highly valued, and if you are keen to pursue your own ideas within these areas, I am more than happy to support that.

Regarding flexible working options, we have learned over the past few years that remote work offers valuable flexibility and supports a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing unnecessary travel. While we continue to embrace this flexibility and use online meetings when appropriate, I encourage students to engage with their academic environment by being present in the office during working hours. This is because I believe engaging actively in the research environment not only fosters creativity and the generation of new ideas but also adds a deeply fulfilling dimension to the PhD experience.

The application process

The application process goes via the School of Computing where you are required to write a mini essay (Research Proposal, ~5 pages) about the research you wish to conduct under my supervision. One of the purposes of this essay is to understand what your interests are and if I can be a good supervisor to you.

If you do not know how to write a Research Proposal check this Youtube Video out first, then send me the first draft via email. Even if it is not perfect. If I think your topics are aligned to mine I will help you finalizing it before it gets submitted. Mind you, “I will help you finalizing it” means I will help you by guiding you through it, but I cannot write it for you.

Applications usually open around January and close at the beginning of March, so keep an eye out. It will take time to write a good proposal so do not be late and reach out to me earlier rather than later.

In particular, check out this page for info about what is needed to be eligible (VISAs, English certificate, etc.). Do not underestimate the need of having this documents ready since universities in the U.K. tend to be rather strict about requirements even though sometimes they ought to be flexible.

Studying in Canterbury

In the latest QS World University Rankings for 2024, the University of Kent has been ranked in the top 25% of Higher Education Institutions worldwide.

Nestled atop a picturesque hill, the Kent campus offers breathtaking view of the enchanting historic city of Canterbury and the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury which forms part of a World Heritage Site.

The campus provides an extensive range of housing options within its colleges, while still maintaining a convenient 30-minute walking distance from the city. Additionally, should you opt for city living, you have the flexibility to travel by bike or bus. With a high-speed connection to London, the City is just a 55m ride away by train, and European travel is conveniently within reach via the Eurostar train or by car.

All the best and good luck with your application! Marco