CSIRO Industry PhD: Large Language Models for Enhancing Automated Program Repair

This project develops techniques for applying a new type of Machine Learning (Large Language Models) towards automated repair of functional and security bugs in software code. The expected outcome is new techniques and models for training, fine-tuning, and evaluating Large Language Models for automated program repair. The potential benefit is the creation of technology that repairs low-quality and vulnerable software. 

Program includes:

1. Admission to a university PhD program.
2. Supervision by the participating university, CSIRO, and an industry partner.
3. A four year scholarship package totalling approximately $47,000 per annum (2025 rate).  
4. A four year Project Expense and Development package of $13,000 per annum. 
5. A 60 day Industry Engagement component with the industry partner. 
6. A structured professional development and training program to develop your applied research skills.

Project details:

Successful candidate will be located at UNSW, CSIRO and at the Nullify Holdings Pty Ltd. 

Supervisory team details:

University

CSIRO

Ideal student skillset

• Strong programming skills, particularly in languages commonly used for machine learning and software development (e.g., Python, C++)
• Ability and desire to conduct independent research and experiment with new techniques.
• Decent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and writing skills and ability to work in a team environment.

Eligibility Requirements 

1. Be an Australian citizen or Permanent Resident, or a New Zealand citizen.  
2. Meet participating university PhD admission requirements. 
3. Meet university English language requirements. 
4. Not have previously completed a PhD.
5. Be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer. 
6. Enrol as a full-time PhD student. Part-time arrangements may be considered if approved by the supervisory team and in accordance with university policy.
7. Be prepared to be located at the project location(s) that the host university has approved and, if required, comply with the host university’s external enrolment procedures. 
8. Be prepared to undergo onboarding to CSIRO, which will include passing mandatory government background checks (allow for between 4 to 8 weeks) and complete any other CSIRO requirements. 

Application Process 

1. Applicants are required to submit an expression of interest (EOI), CV, transcripts and your motivation to the above supervisory team
2. The EOI is assessed by the supervisory team and shortlisted applicants are interviewed. 
3. The supervisory team nominates a preferred applicant and informs iPhD office.
4. The nominated applicant will be instructed to apply. 
5. The application is then assessed by the host university against PhD admission criteria. 
6. The university will issue a letter of offer for the program if all conditions have been satisfied.  

How to apply

Please see the CSIRO for more information. For project specific information, contact the nominated supervisors for the project listed above.