Research Studentship in Scalable Security Support for Next-Generation Computing Architectures

3.5-year D.Phil. studentship

Project: Rethinking Today’s Security Support for Scalability and Enhanced Privacy

Supervisors: Prof Amro Awad

Throughout this project, we will investigate the security scalability and privacy concerns of emerging system architectures. Starting from identifying fundamental limitations of today’s security support to proposing novel architectural support to enable efficient and scalable security for future systems. The project will involve devising new techniques for data security in emerging system architectures and define new approaches with both scalability and privacy as main considerations. Finally, the project will study new cryptographic primitives and explore efficient mechanisms for leveraging them to enhance privacy and security of future systems. The project’s outcomes are planned to be published in top computer architecture conferences and journals.

Eligibility

This studentship is funded through the Engineering Science department and is open to Home and overseas students (full award – fees plus stipend).

Award Value

Course fees are covered at the level set for home and overseas students. The stipend (tax-free maintenance grant) is c. £19,237 p.a. for the first year, and at least this amount for a further two and a half years. 

Candidate Requirements

Prospective candidates will be judged according to how well they meet the following criteria:

• A first class honours degree in Computer Engineering or Computer Science
• Prior research experience in computer architecture and/or security – although not required, prior publications are recommended
• Excellent English written and spoken communication skills

The following skills are desirable but not essential:

• Ability to program in C/C++
• Familiarity with Linux environment
• Prior experience in using computer architecture simulators (Gem5, SST, Simics, etc.)

Application Procedure

Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be addressed to Prof amro.awad@eng.ox.ac.uk.

Candidates must submit a graduate application form and are expected to meet the graduate admissions criteria. Details are available on the course page of the University website.

Please quote 24ENGEE_AA in all correspondence and in your graduate application.

Application deadline: noon on 1^st December 2024 (In line with the University admissions deadline set by the University)

Start date: October 2025

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