PhD Studentship: Measuring Confidence in Heterogeneous Verification

PhD Studentship available on the RAINZ CDT programme at The University of Manchester.

Project Overview

• Project title: Measuring Confidence in Heterogeneous Verification
• Supervisors: Dr Marie Farrell & Dr Louise Dennis
• Cohort research challenge: Long-term autonomous monitoring and maintenance of assets
• Year 1 MSc Course: MSc Artificial Intelligence
• Year 2 – 4 PhD Location: The University of Manchester 

Abstract: Complex software-driven systems, including autonomous robotics, are typically verified using myriad methods. These verification approaches range from extensive testing and simulation through to formal proofs of correctness. When used in a corroborative fashion, the results of these verification approaches can demonstrate high levels of assurance in system correctness. However, it is often the case that, alongside a corroborative verification for the most critical components, less critical components might be only practically verified using one verification method. For example, a machine learning vision component cannot be realistically formally verified but it can undergo a rigorous testing process. These less critical components provide input to critical decision-making components so understanding how the combination of heterogeneous verification approaches can provide a level of confidence in overall verification is crucial when assuring correctness.

About the RAINZ CDT

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence for Net Zero is a partnership between three of the UK’s leading universities (The University of Manchester, University of Glasgow and University of Oxford).

Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) is an essential enabling technology for the Net Zero transition in the UK’s energy sector. However, significant technological and cultural barriers are limiting its effectiveness. Overcoming these barriers is a key target of this CDT.  The CDT’s research projects will focus on how RAS can be used for the inspection, maintenance and repair of new infrastructure in renewables (wind, solar, geothermal, tidal, hydrogen) and nuclear (fission and fusion), and to support the decarbonization of existing maintenance and decommissioning of assets.

We are seeking motivated and curious graduate scientists and engineers who are interested in developing new skills and have a desire to help increase use of RAS to support the decarbonisation of the energy sector. RAINZ CDT students will play an important role in advancing this rapidly growing area of science and engineering.

Funding:

This 4-year studentship covers tuition fees at Home student rate, a tax-free stipend, and a Research Training and Support Grant. As part of TechExpert, successful Home applicants receive an additional £10,000 annual stipend enhancement.

Funding for this project is provided by the EPSRC and Sellafield.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold a First or strong Upper Second-class honours degree (2:1 with 65% average), or international equivalent, in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline. Applicants should also demonstrate evidence of programming experience. Experience with formal methods is desirable for this project, although not a requirement.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the RAINZ CDT website, where further information about the CDT is also available.  Informal enquiries can be made by emailing rainz@manchester.ac.uk.

• Deadline: Friday 15 May 2026
• Start Date: Monday 21 September 2026

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