At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on AI security in cyber-physical systems.
- Company: Join a leading School of Computing with a focus on innovative technology.
- Benefits: 100% home fees covered and a minimum annual living allowance of £21,805.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of AI safety in critical industries.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2:1 Honours degree in computing, mathematics, or engineering.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
Award summary: 100% home fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21,805 (2026-27 UKRI rates).
Overview: Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven decision engines are increasingly embedded into cyber‑physical systems (CPS) such as autonomous vehicles, smart grids, industrial control systems, robotics, healthcare devices, and intelligent transport infrastructure. While significant research has focused on improving the performance, efficiency, and autonomy of such systems, their empirical security assessment remains underdeveloped, representing a growing and critical gap. Recent studies have highlighted vulnerabilities in learning‑enabled CPS, demonstrating that small, carefully crafted perturbations can cause unsafe or malicious behaviours. However, much of the literature focuses either on theoretical attack construction or single‑system evaluations, rather than on systematic, reproducible, and comparative empirical assessments across classes of AI decision engines. This PhD project aims to address this gap through the development of a rigorous empirical framework for evaluating the security robustness, failure modes, and operational risks of AI decision engines in cyber‑physical environments.
Impact and Relevance: The proposed research directly addresses challenges faced by industries deploying AI‑enabled CPS in safety‑critical environments such as transportation, energy, and manufacturing. By providing empirical evidence rather than purely theoretical assurances, the project will support regulators, system designers, and security engineers in making informed deployment decisions. The outcomes are expected to influence both academic research and industrial best practices for trustworthy AI in cyber‑physical systems.
Number of awards: 1
Start date: 21st September 2026
Award duration: 3.5 years
Sponsor: School of Computing
Supervisors: Dr Mujeeb Ahmed
Eligibility criteria: You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject or subject relevant to the proposed PhD project (inc. computing, mathematics, engineering etc.). Enthusiasm for research, the ability to think and work independently, excellent analytical skills and strong verbal and written communication skills are also essential requirements. The studentship covers fees at the Home rate (UK and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status and meet the residency criteria). International applicants are welcome but must cover the difference between Home and International fees. Applicants whose first language is not English require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills. International applicants may require an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate prior to obtaining their visa and to study on this programme.
PhD Studentship - Computer Science: Empirical Security Assessment of AI Decision Engines in Cyber-Physical Systems in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Newcastle University
Newcastle University is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging creativity and collaboration among its team members. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities and the chance to work on impactful projects that enhance the university's reputation. Located in the heart of Newcastle, you'll enjoy a dynamic environment that values innovation and offers a fulfilling career path in the education sector.
