The research programme “Interdisciplinary Studies in the Context of Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI)” comprises a doctoral programme in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence, addressing the growing demand for high-quality solutions and expertise in these two key areas. The doctoral programme is implemented in collaboration with the Centre for Cyber Resilience and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI) at the renowned University of Wolverhampton.

Enterprises require innovations, solutions, and experts capable of understanding complex digital risks and developing innovative, more resilient systems. The programme's scope covers the investigation of novel attack vectors, the development of secure AI models, and methods for the explainability, robustness, and ethical use of AI. The programme promotes interdisciplinary research by bridging theoretical foundations with application-oriented projects and establishes collaborations with industry and public institutions. The aim is to strengthen scientific excellence and make contributions that sustainably enhance technological security and societal resilience.

The programme fosters a deep understanding of relevant research and innovation fields within Cyber Security and Applied Artificial Intelligence. It applies advanced research methods (e.g., Design Science Research), enabling graduates to shape technological innovations within enterprises.

Programme Objectives

The doctoral programme "Interdisciplinary Studies in the Context of Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI)" typically spans three years, depending on the progress made. Prerequisites for admission include a first-class Master's degree in a relevant sub-discipline, such as Computer Science or Business Informatics (Information Systems), significant professional experience, a well-defined research proposal, and a compelling personal profile.

The programme achieves the following core objectives:

• Knowledge Acquisition: Doctoral candidates acquire a profound understanding of relevant sub-topics in Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and Design Science Research.

• Interdisciplinary Research Competence: Candidates develop the ability to generate relevant research results and publish them in appropriate journals and at conferences.

• Methodological Competence: Candidates acquire sound expertise in essential research methods required for global competition.

• Impact: Through the programme's results, candidates generate measurable impact for business and society, for example, through publications, prototypes, startups, or patents.

Curriculum

The curriculum integrates PhD seminars and colloquia designed to shape competitive, cutting-edge research in Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, fostering holistic qualification. Core contents include:

• Quantitative Methods for Research and Management: Statistical and mathematical techniques for business analysis and decision-making.

• Qualitative Methods: Exploratory interviews, expert surveys, and focus groups as a basis for concept-related research approaches.

• Scientific Impact: Publications in leading formats, patents, startups, projects with student groups, empirical research, research ethics, and the use of GenAI.

• General Research Methodology: Research paradigms, literature and document analysis, structuring publications, and presenting results at globally relevant conferences.

Intake

The intake for research projects and doctoral candidates is open until 31 March 2026. The cohort size is capped at a maximum of eight doctoral candidates.