Mathematical modelling of a complex and contested conflict environment: influence of logistics and resource transfer

About this project

Harness mathematical modelling to improve decision-making systems

If you are keen to advance your career in mathematics and interested in developing cutting-edge defence system modelling, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD within UniSA STEM, in partnership with the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). 

The DSTG has a mature networked model of decision-making agents in a complex conflict environment that has been iteratively developed over a number of years. The model has had great translational success, with a version currently being populated with, and validated against, operational data.  

We propose to extend these modelling efforts. Our project will use complex systems modelling to develop a model of decision-making agents in a complex conflict environment. In particular, the model will integrate the functions of command and control, movement, influence, and logistics.  

Members of our broader project group have a successful track record in developing models that have subsequently been translated by defence researchers and used to provide decision-making support to operational planners. 

You will be located within the mathematics group at UniSA STEM and will interact with members of the wider project group at Flinders University and the DSTG. You will also have the opportunity to interact with the supervisors’ wider group of collaborators in Australia and overseas. You will have access to outstanding resources, facilities and expertise that will equip you for a successful future in government, industry or academia.

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will have the opportunity to attend national and/or international conferences to present your research results. Semi-regular visits to collaborators within Flinders University, and collaborative activities with the DSTG in Edinburgh and Canberra will provide you with an opportunity to advance your communicating and networking skills and abilities.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in the UniSA STEM Unit. We link engineering, mathematics, science, defence, cybersecurity, construction management, environmental science, aviation, information management, information technology, and project management, harnessing the connections across disciplines to bring big ideas to fruition.  

Our researchers deliver technical expertise and advice to industry, government and community groups to make commercially viable and sustainable impacts. The Future Industries Institute, Innovation and Collaboration Centre and Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments all provide consultancy and access to advanced technology.  

We integrate research into our teaching, with students working alongside researchers in first-class facilities. What’s discovered one day is taught the next.   

In an information-rich world, our people think big, combatting problems, testing solutions and making data-driven decisions. Our graduates are entrepreneurs and trailblazers, who design and build the world they want to live in. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $32,500 per annum is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens, and permanent residents of Australia, including permanent humanitarian visa holders. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information.

Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from Australian or New Zealand citizens, and Australian permanent residents or permanent humanitarian visa holders. International applicants are not invited to apply at this time.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally applicants must meet the projects selection criteria:

• Hold an Honours, Master or equivalent degree in Applied Mathematics or a related discipline

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes campus in the north of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Sunday 9 June 2024.