PhD Studentship: Enhanced Zero Knowledge Proof to Preserve Privacy in Blockchain Technology (1046718FP)

Supervisor:                 Dr Basel Halek

Co-supervisor:           Dr JingHuey Khor

Project description

Although blockchain technology offers a lot of benefits for Internet of Things (IoT) network in terms of security, there are a number of barriers to its widespread adoption. One of these barriers is its pseudo-anonymous feature and it is susceptible to linking attack.  The aim of this project is to analyze the existing zero knowledge proof (ZKP) algorithms in blockchain technology and to redesign ZKP algorithm in order to improve blockchain scalability and cost. ZKP algorithms can be used to verify a transaction without the need to expose their private inputs. However, the work involved in generating a ZKP is computationally intensive. The focus of this project will be on designing an efficient zero knowledge proof algorithm that can be supported by resource constrained IoT devices.

The project is part of a collaboration between the University of Southampton and A*STAR Singapore Institute for Infocomm Research (I2R). The successful candidate will spend two years in Singapore and two years in Southampton, UK. One PhD scholarship is available to a strong candidate with British or EU citizenship. The ideal candidate should have at minimum an excellent bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline, and be proficient in English.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr JingHuey Khor, Email: J.Khor@soton.ac.uk 

Key facts

Entry requirements: first or upper second-class degree or equivalent

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2018 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Duration: four years (full-time)

Funding: full tuition fees, for UK/EU students, and a tax-free stipend of £14,777 per year

Assessment: Nine month and 18 month reports, viva voce and thesis examination

Start date: typically September

Applying: www.southampton.ac.uk/postgraduate/pgstudy/howdoiapplypg.html 

Closing Date: 31 Aug 2018
Post Type: PhD Studentship (Funded)