PhD Studentship in Computer Science: Quantum-Safe Security for 6G Networks Newcastle University in United Kingdom

[100% home fees covered and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21,805 (2026-27 UKRI rates). International applicants must cover the difference between Home and International fees.]

This PhD studentship at Newcastle University focuses on quantum-safe security for 6G networks, addressing the urgent need for robust cryptographic solutions in the era of quantum computing. As 6G networks are poised to deliver ultra-low latency and support massive IoT deployments, the threat posed by quantum computers to current public-key cryptographic schemes such as RSA and ECC is significant. The project aims to design and evaluate quantum-safe security mechanisms tailored for delay-sensitive and resource-constrained IoT applications, with a particular emphasis on integrating NIST-standardised post-quantum cryptographic algorithms and exploring hybrid approaches that combine classical and post-quantum techniques.

Research activities will include protocol design, system-level evaluation, and performance analysis to assess the practical integration of quantum-safe cryptography into next-generation network architectures. The outcomes will contribute to the development of secure, efficient, and scalable communication solutions for 6G systems. The studentship is ideal for candidates interested in applied cryptography and network security, especially those keen to work at the intersection of cryptography and systems.

Funding covers 100% of home fees and provides a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £21,805 (2026-27 UKRI rates). International applicants are welcome but must cover the difference between Home and International fees. The position is sponsored by the School of Computing and supervised by Dr Vipin Sathi and Dr Essam Ghadafi.

Eligibility requires a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. Essential skills include enthusiasm for research, independent thinking, analytical ability, strong communication skills, and a background in cryptography, network security, or secure systems. Familiarity with public-key cryptography and security protocols is required, and programming experience (Python, C/C++, or similar) plus knowledge of networking or distributed systems is advantageous. Applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills). International applicants may require an ATAS clearance certificate.

Applications should be submitted via the Newcastle University Portal. Register, create a postgraduate application, and use 'Course Search' to find 'PhD Computer Science' (programme code: 8050F). Provide a personal statement, enter studentship code COMP2175, and write a research proposal using the project title from the advert. The application deadline is 17 April 2026, and the studentship starts in September 2026 for a duration of 3.5 years.