Postdoc Researcher (m/f/x)

In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39,83) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1

Postdoc Researcher (m/f/x)

The research group "Reasoning, Rationality and Science" is coordinated by Prof. Dr. Dunja Šešelja and Prof. Dr. Christian Straßer, both based at the Institute for Philosophy II, Faculty for Philosophy and Educational Science.

We are looking for a PostDoc researcher (m/f/d) with documented research experience to investigate the proof-theoretic foundations of logical argumentation. The project is embedded in the LoDEx project (Logical Methods for Deontic Explanation) and focuses on the development of formal models for nonmonotonic reasoning (for instance, default logic and autoepistemic logic) and normative reasoning (for instance, input/output logics). A key methodological component is the use of sequent calculi for logical argumentation, where defaults and norms are represented as conditional formulas in the object language and arguments are represented as derivable sequents.

Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 19 months
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-07-06

Your tasks:

• Proof-Theoretic Development: Develop proof-theoretic methods for logical argumentation, with a particular focus on cut-elimination, proof search, and refutation procedures for nonmonotonic logics and logics for normative reasoning.
• Focus on Sequent Calculi: Investigate (cut-free) sequent calculi for a wide range of nonmonotonic logics used in doxastic and normative reasoning.
• Deontic Explanation: Develop formal models of deontic explanation based on sequent calculi for logical argumentation in a normative setting.
• Collaboration: Participate in the research activities of the LoDEx Project and the "Reasoning, Rationality and Science" group.

Your profile:

Degree: A PhD degree in Philosophy, Logic, or a related field.

Specialization: Advanced expertise in formal logic and philosophical logic. You should have a strong background in nonmonotonic logic, deontic logic, and proof theory.

Technical Skills: Demonstrated competence in constructing and analyzing sequent calculi. Experience with proof search algorithms and refutation procedures is highly desirable. Familiarity with computational tools for logic (e.g., Coq, Isabelle, or custom Python/R scripts for proof search) is a plus.

Formal Skills: Deep understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of default logic, autoepistemic logic, and input/output logic.

Language: Excellent command of English (written and spoken).

Please submit the following documents

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Copies of degree certificates and transcripts
3. Cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your motivation and research interests
4. Names and contact details of two academic referees
5. A writing sample (e.g., PhD thesis, dissertation, or a relevant research paper)

https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/566aacff0e3ffb71ce45a34d5e82f4b580185b8e0?ref=AfA