POPL 2026 (series) / LAFI 2026 (series) / LAFI 2026 /
Verifying Sampling Algorithms via Distributional Invariants
This program is tentative and subject to change.
Sun 11 Jan 2026 11:56 - 12:06 at Salle 13 - Second Session
We develop a verification framework aimed at establishing the correctness of discrete sampling algorithms. Within the framework, probabilistic programs are treated as distribution transformers. Inspired by recent work on distributional verification of Markov models, we introduce the notion of (inductive) distributional loop invariants for discrete probabilistic programs. These invariants are embedded in a Hoare-like verification framework that includes proof rules for total and partial correctness. Using our framework, we prove the correctness of two discrete sampling algorithms: the Fast Dice Roller and the Fast Loaded Dice Roller.
| Updated Abstract: Verifying Sampling Algorithms via Distributional Invariants (LAFI_Final_update.pdf) | 436KiB |
This program is tentative and subject to change.
Sun 11 JanDisplayed time zone: Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris change
Sun 11 Jan
Displayed time zone: Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris change
11:00 - 12:30 | |||
11:00 45mKeynote | Keynote LAFI | ||
11:45 10mTalk | Monte Carlo Analysis of Probabilistic Programs LAFI | ||
11:56 10mTalk | Verifying Sampling Algorithms via Distributional Invariants LAFI Daniel Zilken , Tobias Winkler RWTH Aachen University, Kevin Batz RWTH Aachen University, Joost-Pieter Katoen RWTH Aachen University File Attached | ||
12:07 10mTalk | Sequential Monte Carlo Program Synthesis with Refinement Proposals LAFI Maddy Bowers Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Mauricio Barba da Costa MIT, Xiaoyan Wang Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Joshua B. Tenenbaum Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Vikash Mansinghka Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Armando Solar-Lezama Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Alexander K. Lew Yale University | ||
12:18 10mTalk | A Word Sampler for Well-Typed Functions LAFI | ||