Vanya Yaneva

I am a final year PhD student in LFCS as part of the Center for Doctoral Training in Pervasive Parallelism. My area of research is Software Testing and my primary supervisor Dr Ajitha Rajan.

Specifically, I am researching how we can use novel architectures, programming models and compiler tools to solve complex testing challenges, such as the acceleration and automation of test execution.

Why LFCS?

My background is in computer systems and High Performance Computing and at first glance LFCS seems like an unusual choice for me. However, the research coming out of LFCS is truly fundamental to all areas of computer science. What brought me here was my interest in programming language and software engineering research, as these are areas essential for the adoption, usability and safety of any new technology.

On a personal note, I had already lived in Edinburgh, which is a fantastic city to live and study in, and was eager to come back to it and Scotland. I also think that you cannot find another place that combines so many positive factors - amazing quality of research and breadth of topics, many researchers from a huge variety of scientific and cultural backgrounds, one of the nicest university buildings to work in, which enables tons of interaction, and one of the best cities to live in the world.

Advice for PhD applicants

Do not be afraid to reach out to potential supervisors to discuss their research with them. It is essential to find a supervisor with whom you feel comfortable and can have stimulating conversations. They will be happy to hear from a prospective student and set up a meeting (over the internet if you are not in Edinburgh).

Undertaking a PhD is an exciting thing, but it can also be a bit intimidating and at times, definitely overwhelming. Try to remember that all of this is normal and that everyone here is going through it. The School of Informatics and LFCS, in particular, provide an extremely friendly and supportive environment, and everyone here wants you to succeed. Reach out to fellow students and your supervisor, when you need it. Above all, enjoy the intellectual freedom and excitement that comes from doing a PhD.