PhD Studentship: The Catfish Hunter: Games for Combating Online Deception

Are you interested in exploring human aspects of cyber security, and the ways we interact with emerging technologies? This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to investigate romance fraud (or catfishing) using games. 

Project Overview

Catfishing is a significant challenge that encompasses technology, social interactions and the way in which we trust information online. The increasing reliance on online interactions means that understanding and preventing catfishing is crucial for protecting individuals and maintaining trust in digital platforms. This project aims to do this through increasing awareness and engagement.

As a PhD student on this project, you will gain skills in interdisciplinary research, game design, and cyber security.

Supervisory Team and Support

You will be part of a dynamic research group within the Computer Science department, focusing on cyber security. The supervisory team has a track record of guiding PhD students to successful careers in academia and industry. Support includes:

• Regular engagement with your primary supervisor and group meetings.
• Opportunities to present at national and international conferences, with support for travel and networking.
• Access to a network of experienced researchers and professionals in the field.

Candidate Profile

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including (but not limited to):

• Cyber security
• HCI
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Criminology
• Game design

No prior experience in all these areas is required, we’re looking for creativity, curiosity, and a desire to make an impact. We actively encourage applications from women, disabled, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic, and LGBTQ+ candidates, whose perspectives and experiences will enrich our research.

Primary supervisor: Prof. Oli Buckley

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. A relevant master’s degree and/or experience is desirable.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding information:

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.

Please note that studentships will be awarded on a competitive basis to applicants who have applied to this project and other advertised projects starting with advert reference ‘SCI25-’ in the School of Science. Successful candidates will be informed during April 2025.

How to Apply:

All applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name ‘Department of Computer Science’. Please quote the advertised reference number: ‘SCI25-OB’ in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.  

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