Robust and aligned autonomous large language model (LLM) agents for industry applications

Summary

This Project investigates the development of robust and aligned LLM-based autonomous agents by addressing challenges in role-playing, alignment, hallucination, and efficiency. The outcome will be new frameworks and tools that enhance the reliability, interpretability, and industrial applicability of autonomous agents. This Project will improve trust and safety in AI-driven systems, supporting innovation in finance, healthcare, and national digital transformation priorities.

Supervisor

Professor Yonghui Li.

Research location

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Synopsis

CSIRO Industry PhD Program details

The Opportunity 

The CSIRO Industry PhD Program (iPhD) is a four-year research training program, focusing on applied research that benefits industry by solving real-world challenges. It aims to produce the next generation of innovation leaders with the skills to work at the interface of research and industry in Australia.

The 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 tax exempt (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.

Successful students are subject to the policies, procedures and guidelines of the participating university in addition to the CSIRO Industry PhD Program terms and conditions. Students will receive a standard PhD on completion.

Eligibility Requirements

The student must:

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.

Successful candidates:

• Must have a Bachelors degree (1st class honours or equivalent) or a Masters degree
• Strong background in computer science, artificial intelligence, or data science
• Solid knowledge of machine learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow)
• Experience in large language models, reinforcement learning or autonomous agents

How to apply:

To apply, please email yonghui.li@sydney.edu.au the following:

• a detailed CV, including academic qualifications, research experience and publications
• academic transcripts

Want to find out more?

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3720

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