PhD project in Zero Trust Power Management for On-Chip Systems

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.

Entrance requirements

Graduate
The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School.

International Students

For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country.

English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).

International students wishing to apply to Queen’s University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.