High-level Pattern-aware Parallel Software Development

This PhD project tackles a critical challenge in modern computing: enabling developers to write, optimise, and debug code for increasingly complex parallel hardware. Current hardware advancements are outpacing the capabilities of mainstream programming tools, threatening software reliability and the massive investments in hardware-software ecosystems.<br /> <br /> Software development based on parallel patterns, where programmers use high-level algorithmic constructs to abstract away the hardware complexity, is our best hope for tackling this software crisis. However, to truly benefit from pattern-based programming, pattern-based software must be well-optimised and easy to maintain, which is not the case right now because existing software development tools cannot fully understand the high-level pattern semantics.<br /> <br /> This project asks: What if we could retain and utilise pattern semantics throughout the software toolchain, linking the programmer's intent directly to the executable binary? To answer this, we will develop novel compiler analysis and optimisation techniques powered by machine learning. We will create new ways to map low-level debugging and profiling data to the programmer's strategic intentions, enabling developers to interact with hardware efficiently and intuitively. If successful, parallel software development will become faster, simpler, and significantly more reliable.<br />

<p>This project aims to enable millions of software developers to easily write, optimise and debug code for current and future parallel computing hardware. It tackles an impending crisis, where developments in hardware are set to outstrip the ability of mainstream programmers to write efficient and error-free code, putting in jeopardy the massive investment in the hardware-software ecosystem. </p> <p>Software development based on parallel patterns, where programmers use high-level algorithmic constructs to abstract away the hardware complexity, is our best hope for tackling this software crisis. However, to truly benefit from pattern-based programming, pattern-based software must be well-optimised and easy to maintain, which is not the case right now because existing software development tools cannot fully understand the high-level pattern semantics.</p> <p>This project asks the question: <em>“What advantages are there if, instead of discarding them, the software development toolchain maintains the pattern semantics that captures the programmer's intentions to the executable binary?" </em>In answer, we will create new compiler analysis and optimisation, driven by deep learning technology, to fully unlock the optimisation opportunities opened by pattern semantics. We will find ways to match low-level debugging and profiling information to the programmer’s strategic intentions so that programmers interact with them efficiently and intuitively, hiding the complexity of the hardware. </p> <p>The outcome of this project will be transformative: parallel programs will become faster, simpler to develop, and significantly more reliable.</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>High-level Pattern-aware Parallel Software Development</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/computing/staff/6452/professor-zheng-wang">Professor Zheng Wang</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance Section that the funding source you are applying for is EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2025/26: Computer Science</strong></em>.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 31 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study in the School of Computer Science is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.5 in writing and at least 6.0 in reading, listening and speaking or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to all applicants.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Professor Zheng Wang by email to <a href="mailto:Z.Wang5@leeds.ac.uk">Z.Wang5@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>