Funding
Funded
Zero Trust Power Management for On-Chip Systems
School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science | PHD
Applications are now CLOSED
Reference Number
EEECS/2025/AKB1
Application Deadline
28 February 2025
Start Date
1 October 2025
Overview
The project aims to enhance the security and efficiency of on-chip systems by integrating advanced power management techniques with zero trust architecture principles. This project focuses on developing a novel power distribution controller that dynamically allocates power based on real-time demand and security requirements, while continuously verifying the identity and trustworthiness of system components. By combining secure boot mechanisms, micro-segmentation, and anomaly detection, this project seeks to create a robust and resilient on-chip system capable of defending against cyber threats.
The student will develop a secure power management system for on-chip systems that integrates a novel power distribution controller with zero trust architecture principles to enhance security, efficiency, and resilience. The project will involve implementing algorithms to dynamically allocate power based on real-time demand and security requirements. Use machine learning to adapt power distribution according to the behaviour and needs of different components. Ensure the integrity of the system from power-on by verifying the authenticity and integrity of firmware and software. Create isolated segments within the chip to contain potential breaches and limit the spread of attacks. Apply security policies tailored to each segment to enhance protection. Continuously verify the identity and trustworthiness of components and data flows within the system. Use control algorithms to monitor and analyse system behaviour for anomalies that may indicate a security threat. Adjust access permissions in real-time based on contextual information such as power usage patterns, device health, and user behaviour. Enforce strict access controls using zero trust principles to ensure only authorized components can access critical resources. Continuously monitor power usage and system performance to detect anomalies. Implement automated response mechanisms to isolate affected segments and mitigate security threats detected through power usage anomalies.
The work will start by defining the architecture and components of the secure power management system. Develop algorithms for dynamic power allocation, continuous verification, and anomaly detection. Implement the power distribution controller and integrate it with the on-chip system. Develop and test the secure boot and firmware integrity mechanisms. Conduct extensive testing to ensure the system operates securely and efficiently under various conditions. Simulate potential cyber-attacks to validate the effectiveness of the zero-trust architecture and anomaly detection mechanisms. This project aims to create a robust and secure on-chip system that leverages advanced power management and zero trust principles to protect against cyber threats while maintaining optimal performance.
Funding Information
To be eligible for consideration for a Home DfE or EPSRC Studentship (covering tuition fees and maintenance stipend of approx. £19,237 per annum), a candidate must satisfy all the eligibility criteria based on nationality, residency and academic qualifications.
To be classed as a Home student, candidates must meet the following criteria and the associated residency requirements:
• Be a UK National,
or • Have settled status,
or • Have pre-settled status,
or • Have indefinite leave to remain or enter the UK.
Candidates from ROI may also qualify for Home student funding.
Previous PhD study MAY make you ineligible to be considered for funding.
Please note that other terms and conditions also apply.
Please note that any available PhD studentships will be allocated on a competitive basis across a number of projects currently being advertised by the School.
A small number of international awards will be available for allocation across the School. An international award is not guaranteed to be available for this project, and competition across the School for these awards will be highly competitive.
Academic Requirements:
The minimum academic requirement for admission is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI Higher Education provider in a relevant discipline, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
Project Summary
Supervisor
Dr Arnab Kumar Biswas
Mode of Study
Full-time: 3 or 3.5 years
Funding Body
Funding TBC