PhD opportunity in Responsibility Modelling in Multiagent Systems at the University of Southampton. Develop frameworks for accountability and ethical decision-making in AI systems, with applications in autonomous vehicles and smart energy systems. Join a leading research group to advance socially responsible AI. Contact Dr. Vahid Yazdanpanah for more information - [email protected]

Explore the Future of Trustworthy Human-AI Systems Are you passionate about advancing artificial intelligence with a strong focus on social impact? This PhD project on Responsibility Modelling in Multiagent Systems (MAS) will allow you to make an impactful contribution to the responsible and ethical development of autonomous systems. The goal is to explore how we can define and implement different forms of responsibility, like accountability, blameworthiness, and liability, within MAS. This enables AI agents to work in a way that aligns with social norms, ethical considerations, and regulatory guidelines. Project Overview In this project, you will develop cutting-edge frameworks for responsibility reasoning in MAS. From autonomous vehicles to smart energy distribution and collaborative decision-making in emergency response, these systems must be both technically robust and ethically sound. This project aims to build AI agents that not only perform tasks but do so responsibly, considering social, legal, and moral expectations. - Innovative Responsibility Modelling; Define and implement distinct forms of responsibility to ensure trustworthy interactions within and between autonomous systems. - Real-world Applications; Use scenarios in autonomous driving and urban systems to validate your models, demonstrating their practical impact - Supported by Established Expertise; Join a world-leading research group and benefit from the University of Southampton’s reputation in multiagent systems research. What You Will Achieve Throughout this PhD, you’ll explore how in a multiagent setting, we can effectively coordinate tasks, assign responsibility, and handle accountability in complex situations. You’ll work hands-on with the latest AI and MAS technologies to develop proof-of-concepts and apply them to societal challenges. By the end of this project, your work could directly inform policy and contribute to frameworks for more ethical AI applications. We encourage diversity in our research teams and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with - A Distinction in an MSc in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field, or a First-Class Honours BSc/MEng with strong research potential - Experience in multiagent systems, formal methods, agent-based simulation, reinforcement learning, or related AI fields. - A strong interest in responsible and ethical AI, with skills in programming (Python preferred) and a passion for collaborative research.

Closing date : 31 January 2025. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: For UK students, tuition fees and a stipend at the UKRI rate tax-free, per annum for up to 3.5 years. EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. CSC students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.” Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Computer”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor

Applications should include :

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date