Genetic programming (GP)—the application of evolutionary computing techniques to the creation of computer programs—has been a key topic in computational intelligence in the last couple of decades. In the last few years a rising topic in GP has been the use of semantic methods. The aim of this is to provide a way of exploring the input-output behaviour of programs, which is ultimately what matters for problem solving. This contrasts with much previous work in GP, where operators transform the program code and the effect on program behaviour is indirect. This new approach has produced substantially better results on a number of problems, both benchmark problems and real-world applications in areas such as pharmacy; and, has been grounded in a body of theory, which also informs algorithm design.
A workshop on Semantic Methods in Genetic Programming will take place at PPSN 2014 in September 2014 (http://ppsn2014.ijs.si/), and researchers working on semantic-related issues of GP are strongly encouraged to submit their working papers.
All aspects of research related to Semantic Methods in Genetic Programming will be considered, including both theoretical and empirical work.