PhD Studentship in Non-Interactive Argument: Swansea University invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship focused on developing secure algorithms for counting encrypted ballots using the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method. This project aims to enhance the integrity and privacy of voting systems.
Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge for Public Good (RS758)
Designation
PhD Studentship
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Provider | EPSRC |
| Subject Areas | Formal Verification (Coq Theorem Prover), Cryptography, Electronic Voting |
| Project Start Date | 1 October 2025 (Enrolment opens mid-September 2025) |
| Study Mode | Full-time |
| Supervisors | Dr. Mukesh Tiwari, Dr. Ulrich Berger |
| Stipend | Annual stipend at UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25) |
| Research Expenses | Up to £1,000 per year |
| Application Closing Date | 24 February 2025 |
Research Area
The study focuses on developing algorithms and protocols for secure counting of encrypted ballots using the STV method, ensuring the protection of voter identity and election integrity.
Location
Swansea University, Wales, UK
Eligibility/Qualification
- Candidates must hold either:
- A UK Bachelor degree with a minimum of Upper Second Class honors in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a closely related discipline.
- An appropriate master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or equivalent).
- Familiarity with Coq and Cryptography is desirable, but expertise is not required.
- Comfortable with a functional programming language such as Haskell or OCaml.
- IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with at least 6.0 in each component) or a recognized equivalent.
Description
This research addresses the complexities of using encrypted ballots in the STV voting method. The project will explore the use of zero-knowledge succinct non-interactive arguments of knowledge (ZkSNARK) to formalize the algorithm’s front-end (R1CS) and back-end (Groth16) within the Coq theorem prover. The objective is to ensure both the correctness and privacy of the tallying process, contributing to the development of verifiable and secure election systems resistant to coercion.
How to Apply
To apply for the scholarship, complete the online application including the following steps:
- Select the course:
- Computer Science / PhD / Full-time / 3 Years / October.
- Choose the start year: 2025.
- Select the funding (page 8 of the application process).
- Indicate “No” for self-funding questions.
- Enter “RS758 – Argument of Knowledge” as the funding source.
Required Documents:
- CV
- Degree certificates and transcripts (grades to date acceptable if currently studying)
- Cover letter with a Supplementary Personal Statement detailing skills and project alignment
- One reference on headed paper or using Swansea University reference format
- Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Copy of UK resident visa (if applicable)
- Confirmation of EDI form submission
Informal enquiries: Contact Mukesh Tiwari at mukesh.tiwari@swansea.ac.uk.
Last Date for Apply
24 February 2025
