PhD Studentship: Quantum-Resilient Security for Safety-Critical Vehicular Systems

Overview

The University of East Anglia offers a full-time, fixed-term PhD studentship focused on developing quantum-resilient security for safety-critical vehicular systems. As connected and autonomous transport infrastructure expands, upcoming advancements in quantum computing threaten the reliability of standard cryptographic methods. This project addresses this vulnerability by investigating post-quantum cryptographic techniques suited for dynamic vehicular communication infrastructures operating within 6G-enabled networks.

The research combines system modelling, simulation, and algorithmic implementation to evaluate post-quantum schemes under realistic conditions. Key areas of investigation include balancing security strength, computational overhead, and communication latency, alongside exploring adaptive key management and optimisation strategies for resource-constrained platforms. Expected outcomes include scalable, low-latency security frameworks designed to strengthen the resilience of autonomous transport networks against cyber threats.

Who can apply

This funding competition is open to UK applicants. Candidates must hold a minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or an international equivalent in a relevant discipline. Applicants are also required to have a strong background in programming or networking, while prior knowledge of cybersecurity or cryptography is considered desirable.

What you get

The successful candidate receives funding covering home tuition fees and an annual stipend for three years. The stipend rate is 21,805 GBP per annum and is subject to an agreed inflationary uplift for the 2027 to 2028 academic year. The student also gains interdisciplinary expertise in cybersecurity, networked systems, and applied cryptography, alongside opportunities to collaborate with academic and industry partners.

Requirements

Applicants must study on a full-time, onsite basis and meet the academic and nationality criteria tied to the Faculty of Science funded studentship competition.

Key dates

The application closing date is 24 February 2027. The successful candidate is scheduled to start the program on 1 October 2027.