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Faculty of Philosophy and Educational Research :
Chair of Logic in Philosophy and AI
Research Group "Reasoning, Rationality and Science"
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
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of degree certificates and transcripts
- Cover letter (1-2 pages) explaining your motivation and research interests
- Names and contact details of two academic referees
- A writing sample (e.g., PhD thesis, dissertation, or a relevant research paper)
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team
- Flexibel working hours and support for professional development.
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E 13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Christian Straßer , Tel.: +49 234 32 26128
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-07-06. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5830.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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