Flinders and Swan Foresight PhD Enterprise Scholarship: On Safety and Security Compliance in Future Renewable Energy Systems

Change the world and shape the future with impactful PhD research, co-funded by Flinders and Swan Foresight.

• $33,990 p.a. (2024 full-time rate indexed annually) + top-up scholarship $17,005 p.a. tax free
• Apply your research skills during an internship with Swan Foresight

Flinders University and Swan Foresight offer a PhD Enterprise Scholarship to undertake innovative research into Safety and Security Compliance in Future Renewable Energy Systems.

The College of Science and Engineering at Flinders University and Swan Foresight are collaborating on this research project to identify and analyse plausible security operational scenarios within the renewable energy sector and electrical grid infrastructure. This project aims to develop comprehensive frameworks, methodologies, and templates designed to enhance security measures while reducing operational costs for the industry.

Bringing extensive expertise to the project, Swan Foresight is a leading innovator in creating secured ecosystems for sustainable futures. Since 2018, Swan Foresight has been dedicated to developing holistic, secure, and sustainable solutions for communities and industries. As a trusted partner, they assist organisations in navigating the journey of creating resilient, secure ecosystems, ensuring long-term sustainability for generations to come.

The College of Science and Engineering is also committed to creating a safer digital environment through cybersecurity research and has complementary research strengths in cybersecurity, securing critical infrastructure and research methodologies, and ensuring timely PhD completions. Together, we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project. 

This inspiring project will focus on identifying and analysing security operational scenarios in the renewable energy sector and electrical grid, aiming to develop comprehensive frameworks, methodologies, and templates to strengthen security measures while cutting operational costs. The first objective is to identify and categorise current and emerging security threats across the renewable energy sector and grid infrastructure, assessing them based on their potential impact and likelihood. From there, the project will develop solid security frameworks that can be adapted to different types of renewable energy systems and grid setups. In addition, practical methodologies will be crafted for applying these frameworks, including risk assessment tools and incident response strategies tailored to the specific needs of the renewable energy sector. Finally, the project will design templates that blend security measures with cost-effective operational practices, providing clear guidelines for industry stakeholders to implement these solutions effectively.

The Flinders Industry PhD Scholarship also includes an internship of at least 60 full-time equivalent days, agreed to in written form within 18 months of candidature, undertaken and completed prior to completion of the PhD, during which you will be embedded with the Industry Partner team, developing your network, and gaining insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading/service driven organisation.

This Scholarship offers:

• $50,995 p.a. tax free (indexed annually) for up to 3.5 years
• A 3-month industry internship allowing you to apply your research into practice during candidature
• Access to academic and industry expertise through joint supervision
• A supportive environment to learn leading-edge research methods and become an expert in your area
• The opportunity to manage a complex research project and respond innovatively to challenges
• A collaborative research community where you can enhance your skills and build your network to progress your research career

To be eligible for the Scholarship you will need:

• Meet Flinders University's PhD admission requirements, which include an Australian Honours degree Class 1 or 2A, or an equivalent qualification (at least AQF Level 8). Alternatively, evidence of equivalent research experience, such as refereed publications or substantial experience as a lead researcher, will be considered.
• Commence your studies as soon as practicable within a timeframe specified by the Office of Graduate Research in consultation with the Industry Partner, up to a maximum of 3 months from the acceptance of the scholarship. In exceptional circumstances, and with approval from both the Industry Partner and the University, this period may be extended to 6 months.

It is desirable for applicants to also have:

• A degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information security, software engineering, information technology, or a related field.
• Knowledge and experience in the power and electrical engineering field.
• Published papers in JCR Q1 journals or CORE A/A* conferences.
• A desire to engage with the broader security community through publishing and presenting research outcomes.
• Participation in capture-the-flag hacking challenges.
• Knowledge of web applications and network security.
• Familiarity with various operating systems and networks.
• Understanding of electricity substation standards, frameworks, and communication protocols.
• Experience with programming languages such as Python, C++, MATLAB.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills.