PhD Opportunity in Software Supply Chain Security

Study area(s): Engineering; Science
Scholarship level: Doctoral (fully funded)
Closing date(s): 5 December 2025
Tenure: Three years
Award for: International; Domestic; Sustainability focused
Value: $35,000 (tax-free) stipend per annum, plus PhD Tuition Fees for 3 years

History and purpose

We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position as part of a major research project on software supply chain security, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Endeavour Fund. The project focuses on three key areas:

Detect: Advancing methods for identifying vulnerabilities in software dependencies and AI datasets, and analysing sources of build variability.

Respond: Developing tools to enhance the effectiveness of emerging practices such as SBOMs, SLSA, and reproducible builds.

Adapt, Report, and Comply: Strengthening the security and compliance of software supply chains in use across New Zealand organisations.

More information is available on our project website: https://ssc-fort.github.io/.

Who is eligible?

We are seeking an outstanding PhD candidate to join the project at Victoria University of Wellington - Te Herenga Waka, based in Wellington, New Zealand.

Selection criteria

We are looking for candidates with:

  • A degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems or a related discipline
  • Knowledge of and/or experience in software security
  • Strong communication and writing skill

Knowledge of and/or experience in any of the following research methods would also be an advantage:

  1. Large-scale questionnaire-based surveys
  2. Interviews and participant observation
  3. Lab studies, field studies and case studies
  4. Empirical software engineering using qualitative and quantitative methods

Application process

To apply for the PhD position, please send the scholarship specific documentation to:  stephen.macdonell@vuw.ac.nz

Applicants should submit a full CV, a personal statement describing their interest in the position, and the names and contact details of two referees.

Selection process

The project co-leads will make the decision on applicants’ suitability.

Conditions

Applicants should meet the formal entry requirements for PhD study. Candidates must be eligible for a New Zealand student visa and able to reside in Wellington for the duration of the project.