CyberDOME: Adaptive Moving Target Defence for Securing Critical Service in 6G Networks (PhD Studentship) Aston University in United Kingdom

Join the Research Centre for Cyber Security, Privacy and Trust at Aston University for a PhD studentship focused on Adaptive Moving Target Defence for Securing Critical Service in 6G Networks. This project addresses the urgent need for advanced cyber defence strategies in the era of AI, where cyber-attacks are growing in sophistication and impact. The research aims to develop a cutting-edge Moving Target Defence (MTD) solution that continuously randomizes system components and configurations, creating a dynamic attack surface to protect critical 6G-enabled services and infrastructures.

The project will tackle several key challenges, including the impracticality of manual management of moving targets in large-scale environments, identifying system components suitable for diversification, ensuring consistent communication during target movement, quantifying the effectiveness of MTD techniques, integrating MTD with traditional security measures, and managing resource consumption during frequent reconfigurations. The research objectives include analyzing the state of the art in MTD and 6G threats, designing novel user tracking techniques across network infrastructures, implementing continuous-moving-aware mitigation mechanisms, and applying the integrated system to real-world cyber-threat scenarios.

Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, a First Class or 2.1 Bachelors degree in a relevant subject, or a First Class or 2.1 Bachelors degree plus a Masters degree with Merit or higher. Equivalent international qualifications are accepted. Essential skills include good coding abilities and basic knowledge of IP networking. The studentship provides a bursary covering tuition fees and an annual maintenance allowance. The position is based at Aston University’s Birmingham campus, with regular in-person visits required.

To apply, submit a complete application including transcripts, certificates, a research statement, personal statement, CV, two academic references, evidence of English language proficiency, and a copy of your passport. Applications missing any required documents will be rejected. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams. For formal enquiries, contact Dr. Sourav Saha at [email protected]. The application deadline is April 1, 2026.

For further information and to apply, visit the project page or contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected].