Project title: Biometric deepfake to physical attack instrument assessment Supervisory Team: Richard Guest and Jennifer Williams Project description: Deepfake technologies have increased the challenges to biometric systems. Generative AI tools are rapidly advancing, enabling the creation of media tuned to descriptive parameters that can be used within injection attacks, where data are presented to the algorithm in an electronic/media format. However, attacking at a sensor level requires the development of physical presentation attack instruments (PAI) and represents a more realistic attack scenario on systems where injection attacks are not easily achievable. This interdisciplinary project will explore the development of PAIs at the interface between deepfake generation and PAI manufacture. This will involve a liaison between computer science and material science in the digital generation, physical generation and testing of systems. Working alongside Professor Richard Guest and Dr Jennifer Williams in the School of Electronics and Computer Science, focusing on the modalities of face and fingerprint, the following research questions will be explored: What are the biometric performance characteristics of modern deepfake generation systems? Can deepfake generated media be used to augment real-world data? An exploration of PAI manufacturing techniques with performance/PAD testing on state-of-the-art systems. Is there evidence of demographic bias with respect to digital and physical PAI generation? If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor Richard Guest, Cyber Security Research Group, Email: r.m.guestsoton.ac.uk. Entry Requirements A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). Closing date : 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified. Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. How To Apply Apply online: HERE Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Computer Science (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Richard Guest. Applications should include : Research Proposal Curriculum Vitae Two reference letters Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date The School of Electronics & Computer Science is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.