Automata Theory / Formal Language Thesis Topic Hey All,
  I'm currently trying to find a solid masters thesis topic pertaining to some branch of automata theory or related to formal languages. I'm trying to generate some good ideas for what an acceptable topic would be, something ambitious but something doable at the same time. 

Any suggestions would be very much appreciated!
I think David Eppstein is too dismissive of the area of automata theory and formal languages.  The claim that "getting it published in top-level conferences and convincing someone to hire you once you graduate may be problematic" seems to be what Haldane called Aunt Jobiska’s Theorem: "It’s a fact the whole world knows."

In fact, there are good conferences (such as STACS and ICALP) that routinely publish results in automata theory and formal languages; there are well-attended conferences (such as DLT) that focus on the area; it is a very active area in Germany, France, and Italy; there are great open problems in the area; and I know many students that have had no problem getting jobs.