Collaborative cyber defence: reconciling mixed-mode decisions in human-AI teams

This Project explores mixed-mode decision-making in defensive cyber operations, with a focus on resolving conflicts between operators and AI agents, as well as among AI agents themselves. The expected outcomes include methods for reconciling decision inconsistencies within human-AI cyber teams, thereby improving collaborative incident response. Ultimately, this research aims to enhance mixed-mode collaborative defence capabilities, contributing to more resilient and adaptive cyber operations. 

The Opportunity 

The CSIRO Industry PhD Program (iPhD) is a four-year research training program, focusing on applied research that benefits industry by solving real-world challenges. It aims to produce the next generation of innovation leaders with the skills to work at the interface of research and industry in Australia.

The Program includes:

1. Admission to a university PhD program.
2. Supervision by the participating university, CSIRO, and an industry partner.
3. A four year scholarship package totalling approximately $48,000 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate).  
4. A four year Project Expense and Development package starting from $13,000 per annum.
5. A 60 day Industry Engagement component with the industry partner.
6. A structured professional development and training program to develop your applied research skills.

Successful students are subject to the policies, procedures and guidelines of the participating university in addition to the CSIRO Industry PhD Program terms and conditions. Students will receive a standard PhD on completion.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be an Australian citizen.
• Meet participating university PhD admission requirements.
• Meet university English language requirements.
• Not have previously completed a PhD.
• Be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer.
• Enrol as a full-time PhD student. Part-time arrangements may be considered if approved by the supervisory team and in accordance with university policy.
• Be prepared to be located at the project location(s) that the host university has approved and, if required, comply with the host university’s external enrolment procedures.
• Be prepared to undergo onboarding to CSIRO, which will include passing mandatory government background checks (allow for between 4 to 8 weeks) and complete any other CSIRO requirements.

Applicants must also have the following skillsets: 

• Technical Expertise: Practical experience and/or understanding of AI or multi-agent systems, distributed systems, self-adaptive systems, and AI reasoning techniques (rule-based, Bayesian, counter-factual).
• Research and Personal Skills: A strong interest in multi-disciplinary research, excellent teamwork abilities, a solid work ethic, and the capacity to work independently. 
• Cybersecurity Knowledge: A demonstrated passion for cybersecurity and its real-world applications.

How to Apply

Applicants should send the following to Professor Salil Kanhere at salil.kanhere@unsw.edu.au:

• CV
• Copy of your academic transcript(s)
• Supporting statement outlining why you are interested in this project.

Submit your expression of interest as soon as possible.

Further information

If you have questions about this project, please email Professor Salil Kanhere at salil.kanhere@unsw.edu.au.

If you have questions about the UNSW-CSIRO Industry PhD Program, please contact the iPhD team.