PhD position in Dynamic Knowledge Modeling for Lifecycle Security

 

The Twente University Centre for Cybersecurity Research has a vacancy for a PhD Position in Dynamic Knowledge Modeling for Lifecycle Security of Critical Infrastructures. Critical infrastructures are networked systems whose continued operation is essential to uphold certain basic requirements of life. Yet, overall approaches to incorporate newly developed security measures against cyberattacks at reasonable costs, with limited operational disturbance, and in compliance with regulation during the typically extended operational lifetime of critical infrastructures are lacking.

The goal of this PhD project is to study and develop dynamic knowledge modelling approaches that provide structured knowledge on security-relevant aspects of a critical infrastructure based on real-time or historical data about the infrastructure.

To validate the results of the project, we want to design and prototype a monitoring and decision-support system based on the notions of digital twin and DevSecOps. The functionality of this system should include: collection and storage of data about the critical infrastructure, access to data and transformation into structured knowledge, API for accessing the knowledge.

Research Questions:

1. What aspects of critical infrastructures need to be represented with knowledge models, what is the desired level of detail of these aspects in the knowledge model?

2. How to collect the data about the these aspects of the real world system and how to create the dynamic knowledge model from the data?

3. What is the architecture of systems that implement dynamic knowledge models for lifecycle security of critical infrastructures?

YOUR PROFILE

We are looking for a highly motivated, entrepreneurial and enthusiastic researcher with a background in, or affinity with, researching, designing, and building dynamic modelling approaches for lifecycle security;

You have, or will shortly acquire, an MSc degree in computer science, business information technology or electrical engineering or comparable with a background in Cybersecurity;

You have a creative mindset and excellent analytical and communication skills;

You have good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment;

You are proficient in English.

OUR OFFER

As a PhD student at UT, you will be appointed to a full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, within a very stimulating and exciting scientific environment;

The University offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues;

Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU);

You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.443,- (first year) to € 3.122,- (fourth year);

There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;

A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid);

You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision;

We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.

INFORMATION AND APPLICATION

Are you interested in this position? Please submit your application before may 31st via the ‘Apply now’ button below and include:

A  motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest and motivation to apply for a PhD position in this research area.

A detailed Curriculum Vitae, including any publications if applicable, academic awards and your working experience.

An academic transcript of BSc and MSc education, including grades.

For more information, you are welcome to contact Tom van Boven, via t.w.vanboven@utwente.nl

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