Learning, prediction and decision control in complex systems

The project will focus on the development of machine learning techniques, including rule-based machine learning and evolutionary learning, for controlling complex networks. The aim of this PhD is to develop a computational framework for steering complex systems and doing so in a predictable and trusted manner.  It involves designing effective external interventions to control the system and/or enhance its resilience. Complexity in such systems arises due to:

• Scale (lots of things)
• Diversity (different kind of things)
• Relationships (inter-related and inter-dependent things interacting with each other and their environment in many different ways, and the relationships change over time).

The research will build on existing work with learning classifier systems for making personalised recommendations to rail passengers for their onward journey options (OJPA funded by Innovate UK) as well as control theory and network analysis which is being applied to policy making (funded by EPSRC; CCTool) and security - cyber-fraud scenarios, risk assessment and mitigation (part funded by HM Government).

To apply you should have at least an upper second class honours degree (or overseas equivalent) in Computer Science or Mathematics, or a suitable technical science or engineering subjects such as Computer Engineering and Electronic Engineering. Preference will be given to those with appropriate MSc or equivalent research/industrial experience in relevant areas. Experience in a relevant area is not required, but advantageous.

The candidate is expected to have demonstrable programming skills and solid mathematical knowledge. Hands-on skills in one of the programming languages is expected, such as Python, Java, or C/C++. In addition, the applicant must have good communication skills and be fluent in English. We look for a candidate that is self-motivated, engaging and is a team player.

Essential

• Bachelor degree in Computer Science (UK equivalent 2:1 classification or above)
• Interest in computational methods for complex systems; machine learning, prediction, decision control
• Programming experience (any language)
• Analytical skills: knowledge of foundations of computer science; the ability to think independently
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, both in Plain English, and scientific language for publication in relevant journals and presentation at conferences.

Desirable

• Master’s degree (UK equivalent of Merit classification or above)
• Experience in machine learning and/or evolutionary computation
• Experience in network theory and graph technology
• Experience of implementation and/or experimentation with analytical tools
• Knowledge of complex networks (e.g., random Boolean networks) and/or system dynamics models
• Proficiency in Python and/or Java / C++
• Experience with data pre-processing, classification, segmentation
• Experience with microservices.

Current research projects

• PI on Real-Time Flow, funded by EIT Digital
• PI on AGELink, funded by EPSRC IAA
• PI on Onward Journey Planning Assistant (OJPA), funded by Innovate UK
• CI on SAFRON, funded by Innovate UK
• PI on KTP with Clearswift, funded by KTN, Innovate UK

Dr Yunpeng Li's research projects:

• HumBug
• Invertible particle flow for nonlinear filtering
• Microwave breast cancer detection
• Radio frequency (RF) tomographic tracking