Linear Contextual Metaprogramming and Session Types

Abstract

We explore the integration of metaprogramming in a call-by-value linear lambda-calculus and sketch its extension to a session type system. We build on a model of contextual modal type theory with multi-level contexts, where contextual values, closing arbitrary terms over a series of variables, may then be boxed and transmitted in messages. Once received, one such value may then be unboxed (with a let-box construct) and locally applied before being run. We present a series of examples where servers prepare and ship code on demand via session typed messages.