PhD Studentships: CDT-FORT to Shape the Future of Secure Networks

Queen’s University Belfast | University of Surrey

Exciting opportunity: Join CDT-FORT to Shape the Future of Secure Networks - fully funded studentships available for October 2026 entry - apply by Friday 27th February 2026 to secure your place!

Due to funding restrictions DUE TO FUNDING RESTRICTIONS, APPLICATIONS OPEN TO HOME STUDENTS ONLY FOR 2026 INTAKE! 12 places available.

We are part of theTechExpert*** pilot scheme,offering stipends of ~£31,000 for students eligible for home fee status.

Are you passionate about cybersecurity, AI, and networking? The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Future Open SecuRe NeTworks (CDT-FORT) offers an unparalleled PhD opportunity.

This groundbreaking initiative funded by EPSRC, brings together the world-leading expertise of the University of Surrey and Queen's University Belfast.

Program Highlights:

• Enhanced Stipend: Enhanced fully-funded 4-year PhD scholarships that include a tax free stipend of ~£31k (equivalent to a starting salary of ~£37k in industry) alongside a generous training grant of up to £3700 per year (Y2-4)
• Four-Year Structure: Year 1 features taught MSc Level modules across both Universities to build core skills.
• Exceptional Facilities & Industry Links: Benefit from expert guidance and cutting-edge research environments and Internship opportunities with our 20 Industry partners including InterDigital, Codasip, BT, ESA and more.
• Support for Diversity: Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) bursaries available.

• Research Themes: Focus on one of our 4 key themes:
  • Space/Terrestrial Comms and Security,
  • Trustworthy AI for Secure Future Open Networks,
  • Secure and Trustworthy Hardware or
  • AI-assisted Physical Layer Security

• Additional enhanced training: Leadership (CMI Level 7), Innovation, Public engagement, Hackathons and more

Video:www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gdqa5ykrrdg

Hear from one of our students:

Fully Funded PhD with FORT CDT

As global reliance on secure digital systems grows, your research will play a pivotal role in shaping the future. Graduates from CDT-FORT should enjoy outstanding employment prospects, thanks to the program’s deep connections with industry leaders.

Apply by 27th February 2026: Visit our website and apply directly to the University of your choice.

Questions? Email us at cdtfort@qub.ac.uk

Don’t miss this chance to define your future and drive innovation in a growing field!

TechExpert students will receive an enhanced stipend of £10,000 above the UKRI minimum stipend. In return students will be asked to take part in additional TechExpert activities for up to 10 days each year including outreach to promote tech careers, networking with the TechFirst community and engagement with the tech industry.