The University of Reading, under the leadership of Professor James Ferryman, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the EC-funded AutoBorder project. This innovative project aims to develop and deploy advanced technologies for secure and efficient vehicle border management across Europe. The research will focus on behaviour analysis, anomaly detection, traveller and vehicle risk analysis, and the use of Extended Reality (XR) wearable devices to facilitate expedited vehicle crossings at land borders. AutoBorder leverages cutting-edge solutions such as advanced biometrics, in-car sensors integrated with Infotainment and Control Electronics (ICE) systems, and Digital Travel Credentials (DTCs) with pre-registration systems. The project is designed to streamline border-crossing processes, enhance passenger security through identity monitoring, real-time alerts for unauthorized access, and predictive analytics for threat detection. Compliance with GDPR, the AI Act, EU travel regulations, and ethical standards is a core priority, with a dedicated legal partner ensuring all solutions meet regulatory requirements. The project involves pilot studies at two major EU Border Control Points: UK-France and Moldova-Romania. It brings together leading experts in biometrics, security, automotive technology, and data analytics. The University of Reading is a key participant, receiving significant funding to support research activities. The successful candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment, collaborating with international partners and contributing to the development and validation of innovative border management technologies. Applicants should have a PhD in computer science, electrical engineering, information technology, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in behaviour analysis, anomaly detection, risk analysis, or XR devices. Experience with border management systems, biometrics, or in-car sensor technologies is highly desirable. The position is fully funded through the HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions (RIA) scheme, with further details on salary and benefits available in the official job specification. To apply, candidates should review the job specification and application process at the provided link. This is an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in security analytics, AI ethics, and the application of advanced technologies to real-world challenges in border management.

The University of Reading is offering fully funded Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) PhD positions in Computer Science, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. These unique roles allow candidates to combine doctoral research with hands-on teaching experience, dedicating approximately 25% of their time to teaching support and the remainder to research. The research themes available include Trustworthy and Responsible AI, AI for Health, AI for Environmental Science and Sustainability, AI for Digital Humanities, and AI for Embedded/Edge Computing. Applicants are required to select and rank three preferred themes in their application. Successful candidates will join the School of Mathematical, Physical & Computational Sciences and benefit from a supportive academic environment, including access to MSc courses and bespoke training through the Doctoral and Researcher College. The positions are open to ambitious computer scientists with a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Data Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field. Candidates should demonstrate strong technical skills, research potential, and a commitment to teaching, though prior teaching experience is not required as training will be provided. The funding package for UK Home students includes a combined annual salary (£9,159) and stipend (£16,038), with PhD fees waived at the Home level for four years. International students receive a Home/ROI fee waiver but must pay the difference to the international fee rate (approximately £20,000 per year). The role is part-time (up to 20 hours per week for teaching duties) and fixed-term, with the requirement that the postholder is registered as a full-time doctoral student. Please note that this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, so international applicants must have or secure the right to work in the UK through other means. To apply, candidates should submit an application via the University of Reading jobs portal, including a combined CV and covering letter that ranks their top three research themes. The deadline for applications is 8 March 2026. For further information, contact Professor Shadi Basurra ([email protected]) or Professor James Ferryman ([email protected]). The University of Reading is committed to diversity, inclusion, and flexible working arrangements.