About the project
How can networks of sensors work collectively in contested environments? This project develops distributed signal processing and filtering algorithms enabling autonomous systems to fuse information reliably under uncertainty and communication constraints. Working with DSTL, you will design principled, scalable methods for next-generation defence sensing and decision-support systems.
Modern defence systems rely on networks of heterogeneous sensors operating across platforms, domains, and communication constraints. Extracting reliable situational awareness from such complex integrated systems requires new distributed signal processing and filtering algorithms that are scalable, robust, and mathematically principled.
This project addresses the problem of how autonomous sensing nodes can collaboratively estimate, detect, and track dynamic phenomena when bandwidth is limited, data are uncertain, and environments may be contested or degraded.
The research will develop probabilistic models and distributed Bayesian filtering frameworks that explicitly account for uncertainty, communication constraints, decentralised computation, and resilience. Key themes include multi-sensor data fusion, distributed optimisation, information-aware filtering, and robust decision-making under uncertainty.
Intended outcomes include new algorithmic architectures for distributed inference, theoretical guarantees on performance and robustness, and validated prototypes demonstrated on defence-relevant sensing scenarios. The work will combine rigorous mathematical foundations with implementation and evaluation in realistic environments.
The project is supported by strong links with DSTL, providing direct relevance to MOD priorities in integrated sensing, ISR, and resilient autonomous systems.
You will benefit from interaction with defence stakeholders, potential placements, and exposure to real-world operational challenges.
Training will span statistical signal processing, control, machine learning, and complex systems engineering within the CDT in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence and Security, ensuring both research depth and systems-level perspective.
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.
