Princeton University Computer Science Department

Computer Science 598E Advanced Topics in Computer Science: Foundations of Language-Based Security David Walker

Spring 2002

Course Summary

This course will cover state-of-the-art language-based techniques for increasing the security and reliability of systems software. We will study both static techniques (such as type- and proof-checking technology) as well as dynamic techniques (inlined reference monitors and stack inspection). Throughout the course, we will be concentrating on recent research developments and we will discuss open research problems. Potential topics include:

• Mathematical foundations: lambda calculus and proof theory
• Stack inspection
• Type systems for mobile code: typed assembly language
• Dependency
• Linear types and linear logic
• Automata-theoretic techniques
• Security in concurrent systems
• Cryptographic protocol analysis

This advanced course is for graduate students and advanced undergraduates who wish to pursue research in programming languages or security. I will assume a basic knowledge of programming language semantics and type systems (at the level of COS 503) and considerable mathematical maturity. Undergraduates who wish to enroll in this course should contact me by e-mail or in person.

For more information, please see the course homepage.

Administrative Information

Lectures: MW 1:30-2:50, Room: TBA

Professor: David Walker - 412 CS Building - 258-7654 dpw@cs.princeton.edu

Graduate Coordinator: Melissa Lawson - 310 CS Building - 258-5387 mml@cs.princeton.edu