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- Tasks: Explore innovative AI interactions and enhance safety in agentic reasoning systems.
- Company: The University of Manchester, a leading research institution.
- Benefits: Tax-free stipend, paid tuition fees, and annual increases.
- Why this job: Join cutting-edge research in AI and make a real impact on technology.
- Qualifications: 2.1 honours degree or master's in relevant science or engineering.
- Other info: 3.5-year PhD studentship open to UK and overseas applicants.
The predicted salary is between 20780 - 20780 £ per year.
The target is to explore novel synergies among natural language-based Human-AI interaction, nature-inspired optimization and exploration, the social impacts of Human-AI cooperation on team dynamics, and advanced machine learning in the engineering domain. Generative AI substantially changes the way engineers interact with and benefit from AI and access domain-specific knowledge, marking a phase transition that not only enhances the productivity of engineering teams but also expands the complexity of solvable design problems.
We have two exciting PhD positions at the intersection of formal software verification and Large Language Model (LLM) safety, focusing on extending state-of-the-art logic-based automated reasoning tools such as ESBMC to address safety and reliability challenges in agentic reasoning systems. Successful candidates will investigate novel approaches that use abstract interpretation, model checking, constraint programming, and fuzzing techniques to ensure safety and reliability in LLM-powered agentic systems.
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.
This 3.5-year PhD studentship is open to Home (UK) and overseas applicants. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. The start date is April 2026.
Eligibility criteria: Applicants should follow the Mobility Rule: DCs have not been resident in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the last 36 months.
PhD Positions in Safe Agentic/LLM Reasoning via Formal Verification employer: The University of Manchester
Contact Detail:
The University of Manchester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Positions in Safe Agentic/LLM Reasoning via Formal Verification
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty at The University of Manchester. They can give you insider info on the application process and what they're really looking for in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of formal verification and LLM safety. We recommend discussing recent advancements in these fields to show your passion and expertise during your chat with the panel.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! Follow the department on social media, attend their webinars, and participate in discussions. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother experience. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Positions in Safe Agentic/LLM Reasoning via Formal Verification
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the PhD positions. We want to see your passion for safe agentic reasoning and how you can contribute to our research goals.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to include any relevant projects or research you've done in computer science, especially those related to formal verification or machine learning. This is your chance to shine, so let us know what you've accomplished!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your enthusiasm for the role comes through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the research field you're applying for. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in formal software verification and LLM safety. Being able to discuss recent papers or tools like ESBMC will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your understanding of concepts like abstract interpretation, model checking, and constraint programming. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical prowess and readiness for the PhD journey.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples from your past experiences where you tackled complex problems, especially in engineering or computer science. Be prepared to discuss how you approached these challenges and what methodologies you used, as this will highlight your analytical thinking.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the PhD programme, the research team, and potential projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals. It’s a two-way street, so make sure to engage!
