The University of Edinburgh invites outstanding candidates from around the world to apply for its Fully Funded PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust for the 2026 academic year. Hosted by the prestigious School of Informatics, College of Science & Engineering, this program offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in world-class research at one of the UK’s top computing institutions.
Round 1: November 24, 2025 (Offers issued by April 30, 2026)
Round 2: To be announced
Applications are open all year, but candidates seeking funding must apply by the specified deadlines.
The PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust at the University of Edinburgh is designed for visionary researchers passionate about solving today’s most pressing digital challenges. The program focuses on cutting-edge topics such as cyber defense, privacy-preserving computation, and ethical AI systems, equipping scholars to advance knowledge and influence global security policy and practice.
As part of one of the UK’s largest and most innovative computer science research environments, students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration, access to high-impact research projects, and engagement with industry partners and policymakers shaping the future of digital trust.
The program welcomes applications in areas including:
Cyber Security
Privacy and Data Protection
Information and Network Security
Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
Law, Ethics, and Policy in Emerging Technologies
PhD (Postgraduate Research)
Fully Funded (for eligible candidates)
Applicants must have:
A strong academic background with at least a UK 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
A Master’s degree in Cyber Security or a related field is highly desirable.
Proven research aptitude, critical thinking ability, and a commitment to addressing complex real-world challenges.
Applications are assessed on the basis of:
Academic excellence and research potential
Quality and relevance of the research proposal
Fit with a prospective supervisor or project area
Strong references and supporting documentation
Open to UK (home) and international applicants.
University of Edinburgh – School of Informatics
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Successful candidates will receive:
✅ Full tuition coverage (UK or international rate)
✅ Annual living stipend at a competitive UKRI rate
✅ Research and training support funding
✅ Access to additional University and School-level scholarships
✅ Mentorship from world-leading researchers in cyber security and privacy
✅ Opportunities for collaboration with industry, government, and global partners
3 years (full-time)
Extensions may be available for exceptional cases
Follow these steps to apply for the PhD in Cyber Security, Privacy, and Trust 2026:
1️⃣ Identify a Supervisor or Project:
Browse the School of Informatics’ research areas and find a suitable supervisor or project aligned with your interests.
2️⃣ Prepare Your Proposal:
Develop a clear and concise research proposal outlining your intended area of study, objectives, and methodology.
3️⃣ Submit via the EUCLID Application Portal:
Apply online through the University of Edinburgh EUCLID Portal before the funding deadline.
4️⃣ Include Supporting Documents:
Attach your academic transcripts, CV, research proposal, references, and English proficiency certificate (if applicable).
5️⃣ Indicate Supervisor/Project:
Mention your chosen supervisor and project title in the application form.
Ranked among the Top 20 universities globally (QS World Rankings 2025)
One of the UK’s largest centres for informatics research
Home to cutting-edge facilities such as the Bayes Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
A vibrant, historic city known for innovation and academic excellence