International Association
for Cryptologic Research

The UNSW Institute for Cyber Security wishes to offer a PhD scholarship for applicants with outstanding research potential and an interest in quantum-safe security measures for IoT deployments. This PhD scholarship is available to applicants who are interested in undertaking research for an academic collaboration project between UNSW and CSIRO, led by Senior Lecturer Dr Arash Shaghaghi and Professor Sanjay Jha. Proposals are particularly welcome from applicants who are interested in researching practical solutions that enhance the resiliency of IoT deployments within intelligent transportation against quantum-based attacks. The project will develop a systematic approach and devise a testbed for evaluating quantum-based attacks against IoT deployments in critical infrastructure. The project’s findings will inform quantum-safe migrations in intelligent transport systems both in Australia and internationally.

Amount

The scholarship stipend will be equivalent to the value of a Research Training Program Scholarship (for 2023, this rate is 29,863 AUD p.a.), plus faculty top-up (5,000 AUD p.a.). These scholarships generally receive favourable tax treatment.

Tenure

The starting date is flexible. Up to 3.5 years, subject to confirmation of candidature and satisfactory progress.

Selection criteria
Applicants must possess:

• an undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or a related discipline with a minimum Honours Class II, Division (I) that includes a substantial research component (or equivalent); or
• a postgraduate qualification in cybersecurity or a related discipline (including a substantial research component) with an average that equates to a minimum Distinction average at UNSW (75%); or
• equivalent research or professional experience, supported by references and a detailed CV.

International applicants must possess equivalent qualifications.

Closing date for applications:

Contact: Dr Arash Shaghaghi (a.shaghaghi@unsw.edu.au)