Computer Science PhD Studentship: Fault Detection System Design at University of Sheffield 2025-2026

This PhD project focuses on designing a cutting-edge fault detection system for industrial control systems (ICS) to identify and defend against AI-assisted adversarial attacks. You will work on topics such as cybersecurity, intrusion detection, adversarial machine learning, industrial automation, digital twin technology, and reinforcement learning. The research will explore how AI-enabled adversaries manipulate ICS environments (e.g. robotic arms, sensor networks) and develop robust detection and response frameworks. By combining real-world experimentation with advanced AI techniques like multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MDRL), this project will contribute to securing next-generation industrial systems and critical infrastructure.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineOctober 31, 2025
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Sheffield
• City to studySheffield
• School to studyUniversity of Sheffield
• Course to studyComputer Science , Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• This PhD studentship will cover standard UK home tuition fees and provide a tax-free stipend at the standard UK Research Council rate (currently £20,780 for the 2025/26 academic year) for 3.5 years. If you are an overseas student, you are eligible to apply but you must have the means to pay the difference between the UK and overseas tuition fees by securing additional funding or self-funding.
• Further information on international fees can be found here: www.sheffield.ac.uk/new-students/tuition-fees/fees-lookup.

Requirements

• Candidates should have a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree or a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as Computer Science, Advanced Control Systems, Electronics, or a field related to this PhD topic.
• University of Sheffeld welcome applicants with an MSc in Advanced Control Systems or a closely related area, and a background in artificial intelligence, fault detection systems, and cybersecurity.
• Experience in industrial control systems, reinforcement learning, or adversarial machine learning would be advantageous.
• If English is not your first language, you must have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component.

Check also:
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Application Deadline

How To Apply

To apply for a PhD studentship, applications must be made directly to the University of Sheffield using the Postgraduate Online Application Form. Make sure you name Dr Aryan Pasikhani as your proposed supervisor.

Information on what documents are required and a link to the application form can be found here - https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying 

The form has comprehensive instructions for you to follow, and pop-up help is available. 

Your research proposal should:

• be no longer than 4 A4 pages, include references
• outline your reasons for applying for this studentship
• explain how you would approach the research, including details of your skills and experience in the topic area

For more details, visit University of Sheffield Scholarship webpage