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Edinburgh Napier University
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Fully Funded PhD in Autonomous Identity-Centric Threat Inference and Response System Edinburgh Napier University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Aug 31, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Edinburgh Napier University
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About this position
Edinburgh Napier University is advertising one fully funded PhD position in the Blockpass Identity Lab on the project “Autonomous Identity-Centric Threat Inference & Response System”, co-funded by Acumen Cyber.
The research sits at the intersection of cyber security, identity-centric security, threat inference, MITRE ATT&CK, autonomous response, agentic AI, cryptography, and machine learning. The project aims to move beyond reactive security and build an autonomous, identity-aware system that can predict attacker behaviour, model human/machine/AI identities, unify cross-domain threat signals, and trigger real-time defensive actions.
Key ideas include a Threat Inference Engine (TIE+), a Dynamic Identity Risk Signature (DIRS), a cross-domain threat graph, and an autonomous decision engine for actions such as step-up authentication, privilege reduction, and transaction blocking. The work is intended to support predictive, closed-loop security that learns, predicts, acts, and improves.
This PhD is open to UK and international applicants. Funding includes a full stipend of GBP £21,805 per year and waiver of PhD fees for both home and international students.
Applicants should have strong analytical and programming skills, a good Bachelor’s Hons degree (2.1 or above or equivalent) and/or a Master’s degree in a relevant subject such as computer science, cybersecurity, mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related area. English proficiency is required (IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component, or an accepted equivalent). Strong motivation and independent research ability are important; mathematical skills and knowledge of cryptography and agentic AI are desirable.
To apply, prepare the university application form, CV, two academic references, a 2-page research project outline written solely by you, a 1-page motivation statement, and English language evidence if needed. Use the advertised title as the project title and submit through the application portal. Informal enquiries can be sent to Prof Bill Buchanan or Prof Rich Macfarlane.
Deadline: 2026-08-31.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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