Sandra Kiefer

Sandra Kiefer is an Associate Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Oxford, and the first Tutorial Fellow in Computer Science at Exeter College. She joined Oxford in November 2022 as a Glasstone Fellowship recipient and Junior Research Fellow with Jesus College. Her research focuses on algorithmic graph theory, descriptive complexity theory, automated verification, automata theory, and the intersection of machine learning with biomedicine. She also explores applications of mathematical concepts in artificial intelligence and biochemical engineering.

Education

• PhD in Computer Science from RWTH Aachen University
• Bachelor's degrees in Bioinformatics and Mathematics from Goethe University Frankfurt
• Master's degree in Mathematics from Goethe University Frankfurt
• BSc and MEd in Mathematics and Spanish

Research Interests
Dr. Kiefer’s work bridges theoretical computer science and interdisciplinary applications. She investigates foundational topics like graph comparison algorithms and logical frameworks for computational complexity. Additionally, she applies these theories to practical domains such as software verification and biomedical machine learning. Her expertise spans formal methods, discrete mathematics, and their real-world impact.

Scientific Awards

• Ackermann Award 2021: Recognized for her PhD research on combinatorial and logical approaches to graph comparison.

Advising & Grants
Though no specific advisees are listed, she has held prestigious fellowships including the Glasstone Fellowship in Computer Science. Her postdoctoral roles and leadership at the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems highlight her grant-supported research trajectory.

Labs & Teams
Previously led a research group at the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems. Currently affiliated with the University of Oxford’s Department of Computer Science and Exeter College, contributing to their academic and tutorial roles.