We develop new approaches to programming, whether that takes the form of programming languages, tools (like compilers), or methodologies (like ways to collect requirements or formulate designs). Advances in these ingredients can improve many aspects of applications and systems infrastructure.
New programming languages can improve developer productivity and allow new categories of users to tackle complex programming challenges. Improved compilers can boost program performance through automatic program analysis and transformation. Formal methods can build confidence in system correctness through logical arguments about complex code bases (whether through automated reductions to harness SMT solvers or through more manual construction of proofs of deeper properties using computer proof assistants like Coq).
Programming tools are relevant to most parts of computer science, and this area is therefore rich in collaborations with others, including the two-way interplay between machine learning and programming. Another popular thread is applying formal methods to classes of hardware and software systems whose correctness and security matter most: computer processors, operating systems, databases, and cryptographic libraries.
Latest news in programming languages and software engineering
Associate Professor Julian Shun develops high-performance algorithms and frameworks for large-scale graph processing.
The dedicated teacher and academic leader transformed research in computer architectures, parallel computing, and digital design, enabling faster and more efficient computation.
Ranking at the top for the 13th year in a row, the Institute also places first in 11 subject areas.
Adam Belay, Manya Ghobadi, Stefanie Mueller, and Julian Shun are all being promoted to associate professor with tenure.
Associate Professor Jonathan Ragan-Kelley optimizes how computer graphics and images are processed for the hardware of today and tomorrow.