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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 ÂŁ per year.
About the Role
We are looking for up to 5 fully funded PhD candidates across a range of disciplines to carry out advanced research in building security and resilience in a digitalised world, as part of a partnership led academically by the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde and supported by the Surrey-Strathclyde-NPL strategic partnership and a number of industry partners. The world is becoming increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. At the same time, our Critical Infrastructure is becoming increasingly dependent on digital technologies, introducing new strengths and vulnerabilities as advances in communications, networking, robotics, sensing, data processing, AI and edge and cloud computing are made. All this rapid change gives rise to unforeseen disruptions that are increasingly difficult to predict, in part because they cascade through the digitally interconnected fabric of our society. Research will be driven by the major challenges associated with achieving resilience in critical infrastructure systems, maintaining their ability to function across digital, physical and human aspects in the face of change, disruption and attack. This is a multi-faceted agenda covering many aspects of resilience-building, including: resilience-by-design; understanding, modelling and managing complexity; planning for uncertainty and risk; cyber resilience; trustworthiness and measurement; and the use of data, digital tools and AI. Students will join a multidisciplinary cohort of up to 10 students across the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde. Students will develop their PhD projects in conjunction with the supervisory team and industry partners as part of their initial foundational training, which includes training in resilience-building as well as multi-disciplinary team challenge projects, with the aim of establishing a “resilience mindset” in students – the ability to be self-directed, generate questions, solve complex problems, collaborate across traditional `silos’ and continuously learn and adapt. Our industry stakeholders will also provide access to facilities across a range of sectors, including communication, timing, power and transport.
About You
Applicants will normally hold a first or upper-second class degree in a relevant discipline (or equivalent overseas qualification), or a lower second plus a good Masters degree (distinction normally required). Relevant disciplines include computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, management, psychology, law and sociology. Applicants should be comfortable with mathematics. We are keen to consider applicants coming through non-traditional routes such as a return from industry, a change of career, or a period of leave, and will consider candidates with equivalent experience who do not have the formal academic qualifications. We are committed to supporting Diversity Equality and Inclusion and therefore open to discuss alternative modes of study.
Link to apply:
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of . Our are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.
To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please
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.
