Dilian Gurov
Professor in Computer Science
In Theoretical Computer Science, just as in Physics where we use the language of Mathematics to describe physical objects and their movement, we use mathematical language to describe the behaviour of computer programs. In particular, we make mathematical, formal proofs about such programs.
This can be of considerable practical significance for programs that control physical devices, since the devices can harm us if they misbehave. Formal descriptions and proofs provide a high degree of confidence in the correctness of such programs.
Dilian Gurov's research focuses on devising modular techniques that allow the behaviour and properties of complex programs to be composed out of simpler program components and their behaviours, and to make formal proofs about these.
From a theoretical perspective, what Dilian develops is abstract, mathematical theories of computer programs and their properties. The elegance and beauty of such theories have always been an important source of inspiration for his work. From a practical perspective, Dilian collaborates with industrial partner Scania in applying mathematical techniques to improve the safety of heavy vehicles.