PhD position on Formal Argumentation for Trust Management

The University of Luxembourg (Computer Science and Communications Research Unit) is looking for a
PhD STUDENT in Computer Science (M/F) [Ref: R1F107K30]
(4-year job, consisting of two 2-year contracts, 40 hours/week) on the topic of reasoning and formal argumentation in the field of trust management.

Reasoning about trust is a process that often involves the application of rules of thumb, general guidelines, or argument and counterargument. During recent years, the field of formal argumentation has produced a range of formalisms, as well as software implementations, to deal with issues such as nonmonotonic reasoning, decision making and agent communication. In this context, the University of Luxembourg is currently setting up a research project (Advanced Argumentation Techniques for Trust Management, AASTM) to apply the approach of formal argumentation to the issue of trust management.

The work consists of two parts:
1) The formation of a formal theory on argumentation for trust management
2) An implementation of this formal theory as set of software components

Requirements: MSc in Computer Science, artificial intelligence or mathematics (no older than 5 years) Strong programming skills Although a background on formal argumentation is not necessary, candidates should preferably be familiar with various forms of formal logic and theoretical computer science.

The position is associated with an annual salary between 23400 and 25450 euro after tax, depending on the profile of the candidate.

Applications mentioning the reference number are to be sent no later than September, 30th 2007 and should include a letter of motivation, a complete CV and a copy of the MSc Diploma including a transcript of courses taken (with grades) and the names and contact details of two referees. These are to be submitted by e-mail to Prof. Dr. Leon Van der Torre (leon.vandertorre at uni.lu)and Dr.Martin Caminada (martin.caminada at uni.lu)

Any enquiry concerning this position can be sent to Martin Caminada.

The University of Luxembourg is an equal opportunity employer.