Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Computer Science: Algorithms/Hardware Co-Designfor Bayesian and Isi in London

About the Opportunity

Northeastern University London offers a Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Computer Science: Algorithms/Hardware Co-Design for Bayesian and Ising Models. This is a funded PhD project available for UK or international students, with a deadline for applications on 15/11/2026.

Funding provider: Northeastern University London (NU London) and IMEC

Subject areas: Computer science, electronics

Project start date: January 2027

Supervisors:

• Bipin Rajendran (Northeastern University London)
• Darren Hurley-Smith (University of Kent)

Aligned programme of study: PhD in Computer Science

Mode of study: Full-time

The Project

The project aims to develop algorithms and hardware architectures for Bayesian and Ising Models that can leverage the intrinsic stochasticity of emerging magnetic random access memory (MRAM) devices. Topics will include:

• Develop robust methodologies for characterising the stochastic behaviour of existing MRAM devices.
• Establish the link between device-level statistics and probabilistic algorithms.
• Build theoretical grounding in probabilistic models (Bayesian and Ising) and how they can be optimized considering the natural characteristics of MRAM devices.
• Use simulation and emulation tools combined with profiling frameworks for energy, latency, and throughput.
• Benchmark across representative workloads (e.g., TinyML, edge vision, federated learning).

The successful candidates will:

• Have a proven, strong educational background in a relevant subject.
• Be excited and inspired by the proposed project area.
• Be a self-starter.
• Have good communication skills.
• Have an inquiring mind and be willing to challenge themselves.

The successful candidates will benefit from a brand new campus on the banks of the River Thames next to Tower Bridge. This is an interdisciplinary, vibrant research environment with international collaboration and networking opportunities and dedicated research space.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject - 2:1 or 1st (essential)
• Master’s degree in a relevant subject (optional)

English Language requirements: If applicable – IELTS 6.5 overall (with a score of at least 6.5 in each individual component) or equivalent.

Nationality: Applications are open to UK and international students. Please indicate if you are likely to require a visa on your application. We are unable to support visa costs.

Funding: This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees, an annual stipend and an additional London allowance (set at UKRI rates) for 3.5 years.

How to Apply: Please upload a single PDF document comprising of (1) a CV and (2) Covering Letter stating how you meet the requirements and why you are interested in the proposed research project.

Informal enquiries may be made to Bipin Rajendran. However, all applications must be made in accordance with the application process specified.

Applications must include a covering letter of no more than one page that addresses the criteria for the role and a full curriculum vitae. The panel will be shortlisting for this position on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible.

We reserve the right to close this post before the closing date if we receive a large number of applications.

All employees of Northeastern University London are required to undergo at least a basic DBS check. Our organisation acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard, protect and promote the welfare of our students and staff, and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice.

Applications are welcome from all sections of the community and will be judged on merit alone. We welcome applications from all underrepresented groups, including the Global Majority. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.