Intelligent Software Engineering in the Era of Agentic AI University of Birmingham in United Kingdom

The University of Birmingham's School of Computer Science invites applications for a PhD project titled "Intelligent Software Engineering in the Era of Agentic AI." This research opportunity is motivated by the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence, particularly Agentic AI based on Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, which are transforming both the capabilities and engineering paradigms of software systems.

The project is open-ended and will be situated within one of two main themes: Agentic AI for Software Engineering (SE) or Software Engineering for Agentic AI. In the first theme, you will explore how Agentic AI can be specialized to address diverse software engineering tasks, including but not limited to software defect prediction, bug report analysis, configuration performance learning and tuning, and software testing. The second theme focuses on developing novel methods to evaluate, test, and verify properties of Agentic AI-assisted tools, such as robustness, fairness, and security.

As a PhD student, you will join a collaborative group of eight students and benefit from close supervision and opportunities to work with industrial collaborators. The IDEAS lab provides a supportive and friendly environment, fostering creativity and innovation at the intersection of software engineering and AI. Deliverables may include new methodologies, algorithms, or prototype tools, depending on the direction of your research.

Eligibility requirements include a first undergraduate or postgraduate degree with Distinction (or international equivalent) in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Software Engineering. Applicants with peer-reviewed publications are strongly encouraged to apply. While prior knowledge of AI and/or software engineering is desirable, it is not essential. The group welcomes self-funded applicants and those seeking external funding.

To apply, contact Dr. TC Chen ([email protected]) with your CV, a research proposal, and a statement explaining your motivation to join the group. For further information, visit the IDEAS lab website (https://ideas-labo.github.io/). Applications are accepted year-round via the University of Birmingham's online portal (Apply here).

This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of intelligent software engineering, leveraging the latest developments in Agentic AI and collaborating with both academic and industrial partners.