I started programming since I was 12, but the most fascinating part about it was the design and implementation of the programming languages. I learned OCaml when I was in my freshman year of high school and really loved the design of it.
I really am interested in programming language theory and compiler construction. I've made many compilers on my own and have learned a lot through online resources.
However, I heard PL theory community is very small and tightknit, and my undergrad college (it's decently ranked) has no faculty that does PL research. I'm currently a sophomore in undergrad, but I'm not sure how I should start research and getting into it especially clueless to where PL theory is going right now. I especially want to do a PhD around this field theory area. I don't know about Master's because it is not highly funded as much as a PhD.
I am starting to learn Coq, and I was considering to contributing to many open-source compiler repos. But, I'm not sure what I should do in the research part.
What would be the best advice for me in my situation?
Edited: I am in the United States