Where Research Meets Real-World Impact
CyberInvent is our fully funded PhD Academy, designed to help future innovators turn bold research into real-world solutions.
Applications are now open until 15 October 2026 for our April 2027 intake. If you’re ready to combine world-class research with venture creation and commercial impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Real-World Challenges
Driven by CyberSight25 insights, ensuring research addresses industry needs and creates market-ready solutions.
End-to-End Support
From PhD study to venture building, we provide mentorship, resources, and pathways into commercialisation.
Investing in Talent
We back ambitious researchers with full funding, expert guidance, and the ecosystem to thrive.
From PhD to Startup
The CyberInvent PhD Academy combines world-class research with entrepreneurial acceleration. Participants receive a fully funded PhD at Cardiff University, expert supervision, and targeted entrepreneurship training. Once your research reaches proof of concept, we build a team around you, connect you with mentors, and guide you through our Venture Building Programme, turning research into real-world impact.
Why Choose CyberInvent?
Fully Funded PhD
Focus on groundbreaking research with a three-year stipend of £19,237*
* Stipend covers the costs of a home student as defined here
Entrepreneurship Training
Learn the skills to transform ideas into thriving ventures.
Startup Pathway
Seamless access to our Venture Building Programme to launch your idea.
How we turn your vision into reality
Align with a challenge
Visit CyberSight25 to identify real-world cybersecurity challenges. Choose a topic that excites you — from Gen-AI for security to third-party risk mitigation. All projects are guided by industry priorities to ensure impact and market relevance.
Review Entry Requirements
Check that you meet the criteria for PhD study at Cardiff University. Typically this means a 2:1 or master’s degree in computing or a related field. Professional experience is also considered, along with English language requirements where relevant.
Submit Your Interest
Send us your expression of interest with a proposal linked to a CyberSight25 challenge. Clearly explain your vision, approach, and why it matters. You can apply in writing or via a short video.
Get Matched with a Supervisor
If shortlisted, we’ll connect you with a Cardiff University supervisor who shares your research focus. You’ll benefit from expert academic guidance alongside input from industry mentors.
Start Your Journey
Join the CyberInvent PhD Academy for your fully funded three-year PhD. You’ll carry out research, access cutting-edge facilities, and build entrepreneurial skills to help translate your work into real-world impact.
From PhD to Venture
After your PhD, you’ll have the opportunity to enter our Venture Building Programme. We’ll help build a team around you, connect you with mentors and investors, and accelerate your research into a trusted commercial solution.
Start your PhD and start-up journey
Applications now open until 15 October 2026 for our April 2027 intake.