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ARC Linkage PhD Scholarship

A fully funded PhD opportunity at the Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Futures Institute (Charles Sturt University, Canberra). The project focuses on developing robust defenses against adversarial machine-learning attacks in UAV systems. The candidate will work on an ARC-funded Linkage Project with the University of Wollongong, conducting high-impact research in secure, trustworthy autonomous aerial systems.

We invite applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship in Cybersecurity for Aerial Robotics, based at CSU’s Canberra campus.

The successful candidate will undertake cutting-edge research on secure and resilient UAV systems, with a particular focus on defending aerial robots against adversarial machine-learning attacks. The project sits at the forefront of AI safety, autonomous systems, and cyber-physical security.

You will work closely with Dr Fendy Santoso (Charles Sturt University) and collaborate with a leading research team at the University of Wollongong as part of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Project:

The research combines theory, algorithm design, and experimental validation, with opportunities to publish in top-tier IEEE and robotics venues.

Student status:

Eligibility / Qualifications

  • Honours (First or Second Class A) or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field
  • Strong background in machine learning, control, robotics, or cybersecurity
  • Solid programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C/C++)
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and write academically
  • Eligibility to enrol in a PhD at Charles Sturt University
  • Proficiency in English (as per university requirements)

Desirable (but not mandatory)

  • Experience with UAVs, autonomous systems, or cyber-physical systems
  • Prior publications or research experience
  • Familiarity with adversarial ML or AI security

Stipend: This scholarship is valued at $35,000 per annum for a period of three years full-time study, payable in fortnightly instalments.

Tuition Fees: Fee exemption for a period equivalent to three years (six sessions) for PhD at full-time study.

Operating Funds: Scholarship candidates will be provided with funds by the project on a needs basis from project funds.

The scholarship is tenable for three years for Research Doctorate studies subject to satisfactory progress.

Scholarship candidates are entitled to 20 paid annual leave working days per year and 10 paid sick leave days per year and may be eligible for up to 12 weeks paid primary carer parental leave.

How to apply

Applicants will be asked to apply for enrolment and the scholarship as follows:

Prospective Higher Degree by Research candidates can apply for the ARC Linkage PhD Scholarship when completing their Charles Sturt course admission application. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select Yes > Full-time AGRTP > Other > Enter ARC Linkage PhD Scholarship.  Apply now

Application timelines

Applications are open and will be assessed as they are received until the position is filled.

Contact

Dr Fendy Santoso

Cyber-Physical Lead

AI and Cyber Futures Institute

Charles Sturt University Australia

Email: fsantoso@csu.edu.au