AI-Driven Automated Compliance in Space Systems
We are currently looking for two highly motivated PhD candidates to join an interdisciplinary research project on AI-driven ontology engineering and automated compliance reasoning for space technology. The project is funded by Australian Research Council (ARC) under the Linkage scheme. The primary focus of this research is to develop AI technologies for automatically constructing ontologies from technical and regulatory documents, building knowledge graphs guided by ontologies, and enabling reasoning-based compliance checking for complex space systems. This project includes three integrated research streams:
- Ontology learning and representation, focusing on the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) and neuro-symbolic AI for automated ontology construction;
- Ontology-guided knowledge graph construction, enabling structured knowledge extraction from design and regulatory artefacts; and
- Ontology-based reasoning, supporting intelligent, explainable compliance checking in high-criticality engineering contexts.
Success in this role requires collaboration with AI researchers, space systems engineers, and industry partners in the Australian space sector. The PhD candidates will have access to relevant datasets, simulation tools, and expert supervision from leading academics in AI and space technologies
Scholarship details
The School of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Griffith University is a leading institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in the fields of computer science, information technology, and digital systems.
The successful applicant will be based at Griffith University Brisbane South (Nathan). As Griffith is a multi-site University you may be required to work across other locations.
The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. You will have a passion for artificial intelligence and knowledge representation, with a strong capability to undertake research in AI-driven ontology engineering, reasoning, and compliance automation for complex systems. Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class/second (division A) class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
Please note:
- A successful applicant must have a strong bachelors degree with honours or a strong masters degree in computing, mathematics or engineering. The degree should be completed or expect to complete mid 2026.
- Demonstrated research track record in computing or engineering. Candidates with high quality publications and/or implemented prototypes will be considered first.
- Programming proficiency in Python, and familiarity with AI/ML or semantic web frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, OWL, RDF, SPARQL) will be advantageous.
International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:
- A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
- A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
- A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19
The 2026 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $35,656 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
For project related enquiries please contact:
Dr Zhe Wang
Email: zhe.wang@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to zhe.wang@griffith.edu.au containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section, including a copy of your academic transcript
- A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
The closing date for expressions of interest is: 5pm Friday 9 January 2026
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
Get in touch
If you have a question, need some help with your scholarship application, or would like to make a donation, feel free to contact us.