Multi-modal machine learning for cybersecurity in the Internet-of-Things (IoT)

About the Project

With the time, the intruders are becoming more intelligent with higher ability of attacking networks without being identified. Multi-modal machine learning-based intelligent intrusion detection systems must be designed to identify stealthy and adversarial cyber attacks.

Learning different representations of attack features will provide higher capabilities of distinguishing between the legitimate event and the illegitimate pattern. However, these advances should be developed within the limited resources of IoT such that a trade-off between computational complexity and efficiency of the system is achieved.

Perspective applicants are encouraged to contact the Supervisor before submitting their applications. Applications should make it clear the project you are applying for and the name of the supervisors.

Academic qualifications

First degree (minimum 2:1 classification) Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science

Fundamental knowledge

• Communication, Networking

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Good Written and Oral Communication Skills
• Good Time and Project Management

Desirable attributes:

• Interest in Cybersecurity and AI/ML

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
• Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about
  1. Background and motivation of the project. The motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
  2. Research questions or objectives.
  3. Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
  4. List of references.

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support.

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

To be considered, the application must use

• the advertised title as project title

For informal enquiries about this PhD project, please contact s.jan@napier.ac.uk

Application link: https://evision.napier.ac.uk/si/sits.urd/run/siw_sso.go?ElOlarlItFiG37xnH5PRRBvv3d563wLdwX4JfhYskMa3bJWTuc

PhD Start Date: October 2026

Funding Notes

International applicants should note that visa application costs and the NHS health surcharge are additional costs to be taken into consideration, and successful applicants will need to cover these expenses themselves.