Code Analysis for Energy-Efficient Mobile and Embedded Systems

We are offering a fully-funded PhD opportunity in the area of code analysis and energy optimisation for mobile and embedded systems. This project investigates how software running on smartphones, wearables, and IoT devices can be analysed and improved to reduce energy consumption. The research will focus on developing techniques and tools that help developers better understand the energy implications of their code, aiming to reduce unnecessary battery drain while maintaining performance.<br /> <br /> The successful candidate will explore both static and dynamic analysis methods, energy profiling techniques, and software optimisation strategies. The project may involve building practical tools to identify inefficient patterns in mobile applications, modelling the impact of code structure on energy usage, and testing optimisations on real embedded platforms. Applications may include Android apps, embedded Linux systems, or other constrained platforms.

<p>We invite applications for a fully-funded PhD position in the area of program analysis and optimization for mobile and embedded systems, with a particular focus on energy efficiency.</p> <p>Modern mobile and embedded devices run increasingly complex applications, but they operate under tight energy and performance constraints. This project aims to develop automated techniques to analyze, understand, and optimize application code to reduce energy consumption—without sacrificing functionality or user experience.</p> <p>You will explore topics such as:<br />     •    Static and dynamic code analysis for mobile apps<br />     •    Energy profiling and measurement on real devices<br />     •    Code-level energy optimization strategies (e.g., dead code elimination, instruction-level tuning)<br />     •    Modeling the interaction between application logic and system-level energy usage<br />     •    Lightweight analysis methods suitable for embedded platforms</p> <p>The ultimate goal is to build tools and frameworks that can help developers create greener, more efficient software for smartphones, wearables, and IoT devices.</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the University's website. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Computer Science FT </strong></em>and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is<em><strong> Code Analysis for Energy-Efficient Mobile and Embedded Systems</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/computing/staff/13564/chunwei-xia">Dr Chunwei Xia</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is School of Computer Science Studentship 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p>Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Thursday 17 July 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in the final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.5 in writing and at least 6.0 in reading, listening and speaking or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<p>A highly competitive School of Computer Science Studentship, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant of £20,780 per year for 3.5 years. Please note that no additional allowances are provided for travel, research expenses, conference attendance, or any other costs.</p> <p>Candidates will be responsible for paying the full overtime fee during the writing-up/overtime period (£340 for the 2025/26 session). However, the maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months during the final year of the award.</p> <p>Please note that there is only 1 funded place available and this project is in competition with 1 other project to secure this funding.  If you are successful in securing an academic offer, this does not constitute an offer of funding.</p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>If you are interested and want further information about this project, please get in touch with Dr. Chunwei Xia by email to <a href="mailto:C.Xia@leeds.ac.uk">C.Xia@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>