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- Tasks: Conduct advanced research on building security and resilience in digitalised critical infrastructure.
- Company: Join the National Physical Laboratory, a leader in measurement science and technology in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy fully funded PhD opportunities, flexible working, and a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a multidisciplinary team tackling real-world challenges in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
- Qualifications: Ideal candidates have a relevant degree or equivalent experience; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
- Other info: Special encouragement for women, disabled, and minority candidates; guaranteed interviews for eligible disabled applicants.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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PhD Vacancy – Resilient digitalised critical infrastructure, Teddington
Client: National Physical Laboratory
Location: Teddington, United Kingdom
Job Category: Other
EU work permit required: Yes
Job Reference:
97a103fd7280
Job Views:
13
Posted:
12.08.2025
Expiry Date:
26.09.2025
Job Description:
About the Role
We are seeking up to 5 fully funded PhD candidates to conduct advanced research in building security and resilience in a digitalised world. This opportunity is part of a partnership led by the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde, supported by the Surrey-Strathclyde-NPL strategic partnership and industry partners.
The world is increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. Critical Infrastructure is becoming more dependent on digital technologies, which introduces new strengths and vulnerabilities due to advances in communications, networking, robotics, sensing, data processing, AI, and cloud computing. This rapid change leads to unforeseen disruptions that are difficult to predict, as they cascade through our interconnected society.
The research will focus on challenges related to resilience in critical infrastructure systems, maintaining their functionality across digital, physical, and human aspects amidst change, disruption, and attack. Key areas include resilience-by-design, managing complexity, risk planning, cyber resilience, trustworthiness, measurement, and the use of data, digital tools, and AI.
Students will join a multidisciplinary cohort across the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde, developing their PhD projects with supervision and industry collaboration. The program includes foundational training in resilience-building, multidisciplinary team projects, and fostering a \”resilience mindset\”—the ability to self-direct, question, solve complex problems, collaborate, and adapt continuously. Industry stakeholders will provide access to facilities across sectors like communication, power, and transport.
About You
Applicants should typically hold a first or upper-second class degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent), or a lower second with a good Masters degree (distinction usually required). Relevant fields include computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, management, psychology, law, and sociology. Comfort with mathematics is preferred. We also consider non-traditional applicants such as industry professionals, career changers, or those with equivalent experience without formal qualifications. We support Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion and are open to discussing alternative study modes.
Link to apply:
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre providing measurement science, engineering, and technology to support prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
NPL and DSIT are committed to diversity and equality, welcoming applications regardless of background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age. Special encouragement is given to women, disabled, and minority candidates. Disabled applicants satisfying the criteria will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, our success stems from the diversity and talent of our people. We foster an inclusive environment where everyone is valued based on merit and ability. We hold memberships and accreditations supporting our commitment to diversity & inclusion. We also prioritize employee health and well-being, offering flexible working, social activities, and a positive work-life balance.
We are dedicated to providing equal opportunities and are willing to make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Please contact us if you wish to discuss accommodations.
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PhD Vacancy - Resilient digitalised critical infrastructure employer: National Physical Laboratory
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Vacancy - Resilient digitalised critical infrastructure
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current PhD candidates or alumni from the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde. They can provide insights into the application process and what the research environment is like, which can help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in digitalised critical infrastructure and resilience. Being able to discuss recent developments or case studies during interviews will demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with industry stakeholders or attend relevant conferences and workshops. This not only expands your network but also shows your commitment to understanding the practical applications of your research area.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how your background—whether academic or professional—aligns with the key areas of the research, such as cyber resilience and risk planning. Highlighting your unique perspective can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Vacancy - Resilient digitalised critical infrastructure
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight how your background in relevant fields aligns with the focus areas of resilience in critical infrastructure.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to emphasise your academic achievements, relevant experience, and skills that relate to the PhD vacancy. Make sure to include any projects or research that demonstrate your capability in handling complex problems.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying, your understanding of the challenges in digitalised critical infrastructure, and how your unique perspective can contribute to the research goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, make sure to showcase your comfort with mathematics and any technical skills related to AI, data processing, or engineering. Mention any interdisciplinary experiences that could enhance your research approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Understand the Research Focus
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the key areas mentioned in the job description, such as resilience-by-design and cyber resilience. Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in critical infrastructure to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Multidisciplinary Skills
Since the role involves collaboration across various fields, be prepared to discuss how your background in computer science, engineering, or any relevant discipline can contribute to the research. Highlight any experience working in multidisciplinary teams or projects.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your comfort with mathematics and technical concepts related to AI, data processing, and digital tools. Brush up on relevant theories and applications, and be ready to explain complex ideas clearly and concisely.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
The role requires a 'resilience mindset', so be prepared to share examples of how you've adapted to change or solved complex problems in the past. This will show your potential to thrive in a dynamic research environment.
