Open Call for a Funded PhD Position (3 Years) within the framework of the grant OPUS LAP 2024/55/I/HS1/02974, financed by the National Science Centre (Narodowe Centrum Nauki), Poland

11 sierpnia 202611 sierpnia 2026 mstarczewska

Host institution: the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, Poland

Project title: Reflection principles and their epistemic warrant

This interdisciplinary project focuses on a comprehensive study of reflection principles—key theoretical constructs that play a foundational role across various disciplines, including mathematical logic, epistemology, and the formal sciences. Reflection principles enable systems, whether mathematical or epistemic, to reason about their own properties, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts such as self-awareness, consistency, and trust in formal frameworks.

In mathematical logic, these principles are crucial for exploring foundational questions concerning consistency and self-referential reasoning, with notable connections to Gödel’s incompleteness results. Within set theory, reflection principles are essential for analyzing the structure of large cardinals and hierarchical systems. In probability and formal epistemology, they help model rational belief updates, providing a framework for understanding how agents refine their perspectives. Moreover, in the context of theories of truth, reflection principles contribute to the development of robust and mathematically strong axiomatic systems.

Philosophically, reflection principles are connected to debates about their rational justification, their relationship to self-trust, and the limits of their applicability. Despite their significance, current investigations into these principles remain fragmented, with limited interaction among disciplines such as proof theory, set theory, and formal epistemology. This lack of integration leaves important connections between these areas unexplored.

The primary aim of this project is to develop a unified framework that bridges these fields, offering a systematic analysis of reflection principles and their interrelations. It seeks to clarify the epistemic foundations of these principles, examine their justification within different theoretical domains, and explore their implications for our understanding of reasoning, knowledge, and truth. By combining mathematical rigor with philosophical inquiry, this research aims to advance our understanding of reflection principles and their applications in both theoretical and practical contexts.

Principal Investigator: Prof. Cezary Cieśliński, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Warsaw, Poland, in collaboration with prof. Leon Horsten, University of Konstanz, Germany.

Requirements:

We are looking for a PhD candidate who meets the following requirements:

Master’s degree in a field relevant to the project (preferably in mathematical or philosophical logic or set theory). In particular, familiarity with axiomatic theories of truth is an advantage. Candidates who do not yet hold a Master’s degree must provide a signed letter from their supervisor stating when they expect to graduate.
Very good command of spoken and written English.
Strong interest in logic.
Strong motivation for scientific research.
Very good problem-solving skills.
Good interpersonal and organizational skills.

Tasks will include:

Preparation of a PhD thesis on a topic related to the project.
Regular presentation of intermediate research results at workshops and conferences.
Publication of research results in journals and/or conference proceedings.
Participation in the Doctoral School’s PhD training programme.
Regular participation in internal project’s meetings.
Participation in the organization of research activities and events related to the project, such as conferences, workshops, and joint publications.

We offer:

Very interesting open research problems of both a philosophical and formal nature.
Membership in an internationally active and vibrant research team, with opportunities for collaboration and exchange with researchers at the University of Konstanz, Germany.
Funding for conference travel and research visits.
A fixed salary (according to NCN regulations).

Employment conditions:

The candidate’s primary responsibility will be to conduct research and write a PhD thesis.
The position will start no earlier than October 1, 2026, and will last for a maximum of three years.
Total remuneration: PLN 5000 gross per month for three years.
The project also includes a budget for conference and research travel, as well as funding for necessary equipment (e.g., a laptop computer).
The candidate will have the right to use a range of campus facilities, including sports facilities and the library.

Required documents

Cover letter including a statement of motivation for pursuing PhD research within the proposed research project.
Current curriculum vitae, including a description of prior research experience, educational background, professional experience (including previous employment), language proficiency, grants/honours, and a list of publications and conference presentations (if applicable).
Scan of the Master’s degree diploma or a statement from the supervisor confirming the planned date of graduation.
At least two references, including their email addresses.
A writing sample, such as a project paper or a chapter of a Master’s thesis, of no more than 10,000 words.
Consent to the processing of personal data for the purposes of the recruitment process.

How to apply

To apply, please send an email to c.cieslinski@uw.edu.pl with the required documents attached in PDF format.

A shortlist will be drawn up based on the candidates’ applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, possibly remotely.

Timetable and deadlines

30 August 2026 – deadline for submission of applications.
Early September – interviews with candidates.
Mid-September – applicants will be informed of the result.

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact us at c.cieslinski@uw.edu.pl