Project Overview
| Opportunity | EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University |
| Host | Lancaster University |
| Location | Lancaster, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | PhD |
| Funding | Fully Funded, stipend provided, tuition covered |
| Stipend | £21,805 per year stipend plus Home tuition fees and £1,000 RTSG. |
| Application Deadline | Open - Rolling until filled |
| Apply | Official application page ↗ |
About the Position
Lancaster University, in collaboration with SP Electricity North West (SP ENWL), invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship. The project will develop next-generation methods for attack surface mapping, exploring how data science, AI, and cyber security techniques can be used to produce more accurate and reliable tools for analysing large-scale digital infrastructure, such as power grids.
PhD Overview
As society becomes increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure, it is critical that decision-makers understand the resilience of their systems. Analysts use Attack Surface Mapping (ASM) to identify internet-connected digital assets and associated vulnerabilities. This PhD will leverage data science, AI, and cyber security techniques to develop the next generation of ASM tools.
Research Will Include
- Fusing multiple ASM tools and open-source information to give more accurate understanding of attack surfaces.
- Developing techniques to measure and interpret the uncertainty of ASM results.
- Investigating how AI automation can safely and effectively improve the ASM process.
Supervisory Team
- Dr Edward Austin (School of Computing and Communications)
- Professor Nicholas Race (School of Computing and Communications)
- Dr Xiandong Ma (School of Engineering)
Funding
- A 3.5-year UKRI-funded studentship, including a stipend (currently £21,805 (2026/27 UKRI minimum) per year) and full tuition fees for Home students.
- An additional research training grant (£1,000 per year) for consumables, maintenance, and travel.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Applicants should have (or expect to obtain) a First or Upper Second-Class degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Data Science, or Cyber Security. Applicants from other disciplines with a substantial mathematical component are also encouraged to apply.
- There is no expectation that a candidate will be proficient in all areas of data science, cyber security, computer networking and AI tooling.
Application Process
Applicants should submit:
- A cover letter outlining motivation and suitability.
- A CV outlining skills and experience.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Expected start dates are either April 2026 or October 2026.
Contact
- Email: n.race@lancaster.ac.uk
- Email: e.austin@lancaster.ac.uk
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be sent to the contacts above or raised through the channel given on the official announcement page.
Official Link
https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/scc/study/phd/phd-opportunities/
Important Notes
- Application deadline: Open - Rolling until filled - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
About Lancaster University
Lancaster University is a public research university in northwest England. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across science, technology, business, humanities and social sciences. Its research includes computing, communications, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, while its collegiate community supports interdisciplinary work and partnerships with industry, public organisations and international institutions.
Official website: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline: Open - Rolling until filled. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents — early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Open the official application page ↗
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University?
Applications for this listing stay open on a rolling basis — there is no fixed closing date (Open - Rolling until filled). Apply early: rolling awards are often confirmed in the order applications are received.
Is EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. £21,805/year.
Who is eligible to apply for EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University?
This listing is open to UK applicants only. If you are applying from outside the UK, this one will not accept your application — filter United Kingdom listings by residency before you spend time on it. Applications are assessed by Lancaster University.
How do I apply for EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University?
Applications for EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University are submitted directly to Lancaster University through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does EPSRC DLA PhD: Next-Generation Attack Surface Mapping at Lancaster University offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.