The encompassing goal of the project is the efficiency and reliability of blockchains that can execute smart contracts. Smart contracts are small pieces of code that execute on Blockchains. The execution of smart contracts regulate the interactions of the different users of the Blockchain. The reliability of smart contracts is crucial to protect against malicious users and ultimately for the adoption of the Blockchain technology. The security of smart contracts is affected by potential attackers having early visibility of the intention of users. Finally, the scalability of Blockchains currently limit the applicability. We will study sidechain solutions to these problems.
Sidechain refers to data-types that allow to store and manipulate data, with the same level of trust that the blockchain itself, but with much higher performance (and cheaper execution price). In this project we will identify existing problem in modern blockchains can be solved with different sidechains, and how to implement these sidechains effectively. The ideal candidate should have a strong background on programming languages and formal methods and excellent programming skills.
Applications are invited to apply for a PhD position at the IMDEA Software Institute, Madrid, Spain.
Selected candidates will work with César Sánchez and an international team of graduate students and researchers focusing on Blockchain reliability.
Candidates should be already involved in a graduate program in computer science, mathematics, or a related discipline, with an interest in the above area, and a strong commitment to research. Proven top programming skills as well as ability to understand and develop algorithms are required. Good teamwork and communication skills, including excellent spoken and written English are also required.
The position is based in Madrid, Spain, where the IMDEA Software Institute is situated. The institute provides for travel expenses and an internationally competitive stipend. The working language at the institute is English.
The duration of the position will be 1 year.
Applicants interested in the position should submit their application at https://careers.software.imdea.org/ using reference code 2021-07-phd-sidechain. Review of applications will begin immediately and close when positions are filled or on August 20th, 2021.
For enquiries about the position, please contact:
