A Multi-Layered Cybersecurity Approach for Smart Energy Grids
This project will develop a multi-layered security framework that leverages advanced machine learning algorithms with the state-of-the-art cryptographic algorithms, and adaptive threat detection systems to enhance the overall grid security.
Research Opportunities
Summary
The growing digitalization and interconnectedness of energy grids and mini grids have increased their vulnerability to sophisticated cyber threats. As the energy sector integrates more IoT devices, digital controls, and remote monitoring, the risks have expanded. The impact of these threats can range from disrupting power supply to entire regions, compromising critical infrastructure, and even affecting national security. For instance, supply chain attacks like SolarWinds incident in 2020 could provide a foothold for adversaries to compromise grid and mini grids management systems, potentially leading to widespread operational disruptions and blackouts across the country.
This PhD proposal aims to develop a multi-layered security framework that leverages advanced machine learning algorithms with the state-of-the-art cryptographic algorithms, and adaptive threat detection systems to enhance the overall grid security.
The primary objective of this research is to design and evaluate a cybersecurity framework for securing grid and mini-grid infrastructures. Specific objectives include:
- Developing a threat taxonomy: Create a comprehensive threat taxonomy that identifies and categorizes the unique cyber vulnerabilities present in grid and mini-grid systems, facilitating better risk assessment and management.
- Designing Secure Authentication Mechanisms: Develop secure authentication protocols and lightweight encryption algorithms to protect intra- and inter-communication between devices in the grid and mini-grid environments, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality.
- Developing machine learning models: Develop and optimize machine learning models for the detection and classification of malware, intrusion detection, and anomaly detection, with a focus on minimizing false positives and enhancing detection accuracy.
- Exploring Blockchain Integration: Investigate the integration of blockchain technology for enhanced data security and transaction integrity within energy trading platforms associated with grids and mini grids.
The research will employ a combination of theoretical analysis, simulation, and empirical testing. A theoretical foundation will be established by conducting an extensive literature review and analysis to identify key vulnerabilities, potential attack vectors, and security requirements specific to grid and mini-grid infrastructures. Advanced machine learning techniques, including deep learning and reinforcement learning, will be applied to large datasets to train detection models. Feature engineering and optimization techniques will be employed to fine-tune models, focusing on high detection accuracy and low false positives. Transfer learning will also be explored to adapt pre-trained models to evolving grid-specific threats. Cryptographic protocols will be designed for the unique constraints of grid environments, such as limited processing power and bandwidth. Protocols will undergo security and performance testing. Additionally, blockchain frameworks will be evaluated through prototype implementations to assess their applicability in energy systems.
Potential Candidate Qualifications
- Strong academic background in cybersecurity, computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline, with at least a 2:1 BSc or equivalent.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, with hands-on experience in developing machine learning algorithms and cryptographic techniques.
- Demonstrated interest in research and a commitment to advancing the field of cybersecurity grids and energy infrastructure systems.
Supervisors
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Research Themes
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About our Research Degrees
We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
If you need any further support prior to applying, please email researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk to see if you are eligible.
English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £19,450 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,670 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,720 per academic year
For Academic Year 2023/2024
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,712 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,830 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,356 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £18,700 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,220 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,350 per academic year
Additional Costs
The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase
- Accommodation and living costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
Postgraduate research students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However you may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Funded Studentships
Occasionally, the University will also advertise available funded studentships, for very specific topics or subjects:
Disclaimer
For new intakes course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information see:
How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
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