The Information Security Group

The Information Security Group runs an active PhD research programme on a wide variety of security-related topics such as the design and evaluation of cryptographic algorithms and protocols, smart cards, electronic commerce, security management, and the integration of security techniques into specific applications. Currently, research students are working on topics such as cryptography, key recovery, public key infrastructures, electronic payment protocols, risk analysis, and smart card security. The particular research interest of individual members of staff and students can be found in their respective home pages.

There have been over 50 successful PhD students, many holding influential positions in the security industry. About 40 percent of the research students have had some form of industrial sponsorship.

PhD course information and contact details

The minimum entry requirement for an MPhil or an MPhil leading to a PhD degree is the equivalent of a UK Second Class Honours degree in an appropriate subject, although in many cases a Master's level qualification will also be expected.

Although most research students are full-time, applications for part-time study are welcome - that is: students working for more that fifteen hours per week or with family commitments which preclude full-time study.

Applicants should, where possible, indicate the area of information security in which they wish to work, on their application form. Once an application has been received the candidate will normally be invited to visit the University to discuss a possible research programme with members of the academic staff.

All research students are given at least one named supervisor and an advisor. The supervisor, who will be a member of the academic staff, directs their work. The advisor provides academic welfare support. To be in a position to pursue research successfully, students may have to attend some of the advanced courses offered in the University. There will also be opportunities to attend formal or informal seminars with other research students and academics.

Once the research has been successfully completed the student has to write a report in the form of a thesis and will be invited to attend an oral examination.

EPSRC awards
For UK and European Union students, EPSRC awards may be available. Intending applicants for these should state that they wish to apply, in the relevant space on the application form. EPSRC requires that applicants should hold at least an upper second class honours degree of a British university or equivalent qualification. However, the number of these awards is limited and they are made on a competitive basis. Applications must be made before July of each year for students beginning their course in the following September. Decisions on applications are usually communicated to students in early August.
EPSRC CASE awards
There are frequently available. There are obtained by a particular academic agreeing with a company on a project for collaborative research. The award is made for the specified research project and the student must spend some time at the sponsoring company as well as working in the Department.
ORS awards
For a well-qualified overseas (non-European Union) student the College may make an application for an ORS (Overseas Research Studentship) award. However there is not a great number of these available and the competition is strong.
Project studentships
Occasionally, studentships associated with a research project are available. Details of these will be advertised when available.
Further sources of funding, including college grants
The college offers a number of fully funded and fees-only studentships for both home and overseas students on a competitive basis. The deadline for most of these grants is March 31.