[Apologies if you receive multiple copies of this announcement] BCS-FACS / FME Evening Seminar Formal Methods in the Last 25 Years Jean-Raymond Abrial, ETH Zurich Ian Hayes, University of Queensland Cliff Jones, University of Newcastle John Tucker, University of Wales 30 January 2006 Start time: 5.30 pm Refreshments from 5pm BCS London Offices First Floor The Davidson Building 5 Southampton Street London WC2E 7HA Mathematically-based "formal" methods for developing software and systems have had an interesting history. Over the past twenty-five years, the subject has moved from controversies surrounding code verification, through work on data types, design methodology, refinement and "Lightweight" Formal Methods, to automated proof and model-checking technology. This event brings together four computer scientists who have been active as leading researchers and practitioners in the field over the last quarter century. It provides an opportunity to learn about the motivations behind some of the major developments in the field, to discuss trends, fashions, successes and failures and set them in their recent historical context. The meeting will be of interest to researchers, students and practitioners in software and systems development, specialists in formal methods and anyone with an interest in the history of computing. The Panel: Jean-Raymond Abrial, ETH Zurich Ian Hayes, University of Queensland Cliff Jones, University of Newcastle upon Tyne John Tucker, University of Wales, Swansea Chairman: John Fitzgerald, Formal Methods Europe (FME) There will be an opportunity for participants to raise issues for discussion at the event. In order to make best use of the time, participants are invited to mail [log in to unmask] with issues or questions that they would like the panel to discuss. It may not be possible to deal with all the issues raised, but there will be an opportunity for additional questioning and discussion at the event. Refreshments will be served from 5pm The seminar is free of charge and open to everyone. If you would like to attend, please email Paul Boca [[log in to unmask]] by >>>>> 26 January 2006 <<<<< . Pre-registration is required, as security at the BCS Offices is tight. Location of the venue: http://www.bcs.org/NR/rdonlyres/B5872B38-3FBB-46E8-9CE7-6F43212E1198/0/londonss. jpg FME website: http://www.fmeurope.org FACS Website: http://www.bcs-facs.org FACS Evening Seminars website: http://www.bcs-facs.org/events/EveningSeminars