PhD in Decentralised Task Allocation in Multi-Agent Systems under Uncertainty Aston University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Aston University focuses on decentralised task allocation in multi-agent systems under uncertainty, a fundamental challenge in artificial intelligence. The research aims to design next-generation AI algorithms for coordinating intelligent agents in complex, uncertain environments without central control. You will develop novel mechanisms that enable autonomous agents to allocate tasks efficiently, robustly, and adaptively, even when operating with limited information and competing objectives.

The project combines rigorous theory and practical impact, leveraging tools from game theory, optimisation, machine learning, and probabilistic planning. You will build mathematical models for multi-agent decision-making under partial observability, design decentralised coordination mechanisms, and explore learning-based approaches such as multi-agent reinforcement learning. Simulation environments will be developed to evaluate system performance under realistic conditions, and robustness will be analysed in the face of uncertainty, delays, and abnormal agent behaviour.

Aurrigo International Plc, the industrial partner, provides direct access to real-world coordination challenges. You will collaborate with their engineering teams and undertake a four-month industrial placement, gaining hands-on experience and industry insight. This integration ensures your research is both methodologically deep and practically relevant, preparing you for careers in academia and advanced AI development.

The research environment at Aston University is strong in artificial intelligence and multi-agent systems, offering opportunities for collaboration across academia and industry. The project is suited to candidates with a background in computer science, mathematics, or related fields, and interests in multi-agent systems, machine learning, optimisation, or game theory. By the end of the PhD, you will have expertise in designing and analysing complex multi-agent systems, with skills applicable to logistics, distributed systems, and intelligent infrastructure.

Funding covers all tuition fees and provides an annual stipend of £21,805. The successful candidate is responsible for relocation, campus visits, visa, flights, and NHS Surcharge costs. Applicants must meet academic and English language requirements and submit a complete application with all supporting documents. The deadline for applications is April 22, 2026. For enquiries, contact Dr. Farzaneh Farhadi at [email protected].