The Theatre of Trust: Storytelling, Roleplay, and the Human Side of Cybersecurity (Ref: CO/OB-SF1/2026)

About the Project

Cyber security isn’t just about technology, it’s about people, behaviour and trust. Yet most awareness campaigns rely on fear or technical terminology. This PhD explores how storytelling, play and interactive experiences can make cyber security more engaging, relatable and effective. You’ll examine how narrative and roleplay shape how individuals understand digital risk and how creative communication can build more resilient online habits.

With cyber threats now part of everyday life, helping people make sense of security through accessible methods has never been more important. This research will look at how tools such as escape rooms, serious games or digital stories can spark curiosity, reduce anxiety and promote positive behaviour change. It offers real-world impact in public education, design and digital engagement, and will equip you with transferable skills in research, creativity and communication.

You’ll join a supportive, interdisciplinary environment at Loughborough University, working within our cyber security research community. We’re a team that values innovation, collaboration and practical impact. Supervision will be led by Professor Oli Buckley (cyber security, applied games and public engagement).

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Prof. Oli Buckley o.buckley@lboro.ac.uk

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 bachelor’s degree (or equivalent international qualification) in computer science, design, media or a related field. A relevant master’s degree and/or experience in human factors, education or storytelling-based design would be an advantage.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 1st July 2026

Start date: April 2026, October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years

Fee band: UK £5,006, International £28,600

How to apply:

All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select Loughborough and select Programme PhD Computer Science. Please quote the advertised reference number CO/OB-SF1/2026 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Please note that this criteria is used for both funded and self- funded projects.

Please note, applications for this project are considered on an ongoing basis once submitted and the project may be withdrawn prior to the application deadline, if a suitable candidate is chosen for the project.

Project search terms:

cyber security, design, digital media, human computer interaction, information security, games, trust, storytelling, public engagement, digital literacy

Email Address Sci:

sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk