PhD/MPhil Students

  • Yuxi Chen (First Supervisor)
  • Paul Smith (First Supervisor)
  • Bernie Chen (Second Supervisor, with UofG Singapore)

Visiting Ph.D. Students

Research Postgraduate (RPg) Students

Ph.D. in Our Group [Contact]

I selectively consider PhD applicants whose background strongly matches my research agenda in LLM-driven software engineering, agentic AI security, mobile security, and empirical software engineering.

Before contacting me, please read at least one of my recent papers and include a concise research idea showing how your background fits the group. Please send your CV, academic transcript, publications (if any), and a short note explaining the specific research fit.

Applicants will typically have a BSc in Computing Science or a related discipline at 2:1 level or above, and will have had some exposure to the field of programming languages through courses, internships, or undergraduate projects.

See here for information about applying to do a PhD at the School of Computing Science at the University of Glasgow. As part of the application process, you will need to write a research proposal; this is not binding but gives you an opportunity to show that you can read around an area and can identify a problem to work on.

PhD study in the UK

In UK, a PhD normally consists of 3 or 4 years of independent research under the supervision of a member of academic staff. At the end of this period, you will submit a thesis detailing the work you have done, which will be examined by an internal and an external examiner at a (closed) viva.

Funding

The School of Computing Science has several scholarships available (for home and international students) each year which cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend. The deadline is typically in January each year. Strong applicants whose research direction fits the group may contact me before applying.

Please get in touch well before the scholarship deadline if you would like your fit with the group to be considered before submitting a formal application.

Post-doc Opportunities [Contact]

When no funded positions are advertised, postdoctoral candidates must secure independent fellowship support. I can support a small number of exceptional fellowship candidates whose track record, proposal, and research direction strongly align with my group. Candidates should contact me with a CV, a concise fellowship plan, and their three strongest publications.

The following fellowship schemes are possible routes for highly aligned postdoctoral proposals:

Visiting PhD Students [Contact]

I selectively host visiting Ph.D. students when there is a clear research fit, a concrete collaboration plan, and sufficient lead time for University and visa processes. Prospective visitors should send an email with a CV, proposed visit period, funding source, and a short research plan connected to my group's work. If you are a national of an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)-exempt country, please contact me two months before your departure. If you require an ATAS certificate to study or do research in UK, please contact me at least six months before your departure. Find more about ATAS certificate here.

Visiting Professors [Contact]

I consider academic visitors when the visit is attached to a focused collaboration in software engineering, AI security, empirical software engineering, or trustworthy AI systems. Prospective visitors should send an email with a CV, proposed visit period, funding source, and collaboration plan. If you are a national of an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)-exempt country, please contact me two months before your departure. If you require an ATAS certificate to do research in UK, please contact me at least six months before your departure. Find more about ATAS certificate here.

About University of Glasgow (Top-100 on QS/THE/US News rankings)

The University of Glasgow, nestled in the heart of the vibrant and culturally rich city of Glasgow, Scotland, is an esteemed institution with a storied history dating back to 1451. Boasting a long tradition of academic excellence, the university offers a diverse range of world-class programs, attracting students from all corners of the globe. With its historic architecture, lush green spaces, and dynamic urban atmosphere, Glasgow city provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable university experience. Students can immerse themselves in the city's thriving arts scene, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks, while also benefiting from the warmth and friendliness of its residents.

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