Informatics: ICSA: Computer Architecture, Compilation and System software, Networks and Communication Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

The Institute for Computing System Architecture (ICSA) will provide you with academic resources and industry links that are among the best in the world.

We are home to the UK’s largest group of PhD researchers in the field, and host a Centre of Excellence in partnership with ARM, the world’s largest microprocessor intellectual property provider. We are also a member of the European Network of Excellence on High Performance and Embedded Architecture and Compilation.

Our current research is focused on the areas of:

* compilers and architectures

* parallel computing

* computer networking

* systems software and operating systems

* storage, file systems, and databases

* processor-automated synthesis by iterative analysis

* machine learning systems

While the scope for research is wide, each area is underpinned by our fundamental aims:

* to extend understanding of existing systems

* to improve current systems

* to develop new architecture and engineering methods

Reputation

The University of Edinburgh consistently ranks among the world's top universities for Computer Science, including 22nd in the world and 5th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 ranked our School 1st in the UK for research power in Computer Science and Informatics. This means you will learn from experts at the forefront of their fields, undertaking cutting-edge research in a wide range of areas.

Environment

You will be part of a large, vibrant department with around 2000 students across undergraduate, masters and research programmes and 150 academic staff.

You will study in the heart of Edinburgh city centre, regularly voted as one of the most desirable places to live in the world, and one of the UK’s fastest-growing tech hubs.