About the Project
Underwater autonomous systems rely heavily on acoustic communication because conventional radio and satellite-based positioning do not work effectively beneath the surface. As these systems become more widely used, there is a growing need to understand how underwater communication links can be made more secure and how receiving systems can determine whether a signal comes from a trusted source.
This PhD will investigate new physical-layer security methods for underwater acoustic communication. In particular, the project will explore whether characteristics introduced by real acoustic hardware can be used to help distinguish between transmitting devices and support receiver-side authentication.
The work will combine experimental measurements, signal processing, statistical analysis and machine learning. The student will study how device-related information changes under different underwater conditions and how reliably it can be separated from effects introduced by the communication channel and receiving equipment. The project will also examine the security of the resulting methods, including how robust they are when an adversary attempts to interfere with or mislead the authentication process.
The project will involve practical work with underwater acoustic equipment, allowing the student to gain experience in acoustic measurement, digital signal processing, machine learning, applied security research and the analysis of real-world communication systems.
Expected outcomes include new methods for identifying and authenticating underwater acoustic transmitters, experimental datasets, and tools for evaluating the security of underwater communication systems. The work may also create opportunities for future technology transfer and commercialisation in areas such as autonomous marine systems, maritime infrastructure and defence.
This project would suit a student interested in cybersecurity, signal processing, wireless or acoustic communications, machine learning, or the security of autonomous systems.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Engineering Scholarships. If you don't already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD Computer Science, Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Communications, Signal Processing, Physics, Mathematics, or a closely related discipline (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD Computer Science, Electrical or Electronic Engineering, Communications, Signal Processing, Physics, Mathematics, or a closely related discipline (or international equivalent).
A strong quantitative background and good programming skills are required. Experience with digital signal processing, machine learning, communications systems, or experimental hardware would be advantageous. Prior experience in underwater acoustics is not required, but applicants should have an interest in security, signal processing and experimental research.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
FSE_SoE
Funding Notes
Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £21,805/annum) and up to a £2.5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 3.5-year programme.