Fully Funded PhD in Computer Architecture and System Security at George Mason University (Spring/Fall 2026)

Are you passionate about AR/VR security, hardware system security, or large language models? A PhD in Computer Architecture and System Security at George Mason University (GMU) is now open for applications for Spring 2026 and Fall 2026. This is a fully funded PhD opportunity for international and domestic students, under the supervision of Dr. Yicheng Zhang, a new tenure-track Assistant Professor joining GMU’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in January 2026.

🎓 University: George Mason University (GMU)
📍 Location: Fairfax, Virginia, USA
👨‍🏫 Advisor: Dr. Yicheng Zhang
📅 Start Dates: Spring 2026 or Fall 2026
💰 Funding: Fully funded (includes stipend, tuition, and health insurance)
🔗 Apply to: GMU ECE PhD Program

🎯 Focus Keyword: PhD in Computer Architecture and System Security at George Mason University

The PhD in Computer Architecture and System Security at George Mason University is a fantastic opportunity to conduct advanced research at the intersection of hardware architecture, cybersecurity, and AI technologies. GMU is seeking 2–3 highly motivated PhD students for a funded role in one of the most dynamic and high-demand fields in computing.

🔍 Research Focus – What You’ll Work On

The research areas for this PhD include topics that lie at the forefront of computer architecture and system security, such as:

• 🔐 AR/VR Security and Privacy
• 🧠 Large Language Models (LLMs) for AR/VR Systems
• 🧱 Microarchitectural Attacks and Defenses
• ⚙️ Related topics in hardware-software co-design, system-level defenses, and AI-enhanced security

Dr. Zhang’s work bridges low-level computer architecture with emerging AI and XR technologies, providing students with the tools and frameworks to tackle real-world security threats in modern computing platforms.

Explore Dr. Zhang’s work here: yichez.site

🧠 About the Supervisor – Dr. Yicheng Zhang

Dr. Yicheng Zhang is joining GMU’s ECE department in January 2026 and is rapidly building a high-impact research group focused on computer system security. His publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and strong academic leadership provide an ideal mentorship environment for future researchers aiming to excel in both academia and industry.

🧾 Application Details

📅 Application Deadlines:

• Spring 2026:
  • Priority Funding Deadline: August 15, 2025
  • Final Deadline: October 15, 2025
• Fall 2026:
  • Priority Funding Deadline: December 1, 2025
  • Final Deadline: March 15, 2026

📧 Contact: Send application material to:
arresearch828@gmail.com
Subject line: [Prospective PhD Student]

Include the following in your email:

1. Semester you wish to apply for (Spring or Fall 2026)
2. CV and transcript
3. Statement of research interests and relevant experience
4. A brief summary of one of Dr. Zhang’s papers (with your insights on strengths, weaknesses, and possible extensions)

📝 Additionally, make sure to apply officially through the: GMU ECE Ph.D. Program and mention Dr. Yicheng Zhang’s name in your application.

✅ Ideal Candidate Profile

To qualify for the PhD in Computer Architecture and System Security at George Mason University, you should have:

✔️ A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:

• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Computer Science
• or a related field

✔️ Strong academic background with a GPA and research experience
✔️ Interest in computer hardware, architecture, security, and AI
✔️ Prior exposure to system-level programming or AR/VR platforms is a plus
✔️ English proficiency (for international applicants)

Whether you are finishing your undergraduate or master’s degree, this opportunity is ideal for candidates looking to work on impactful and emerging research areas.

🏫 Why George Mason University?

Located in Fairfax, Virginia, just 30 minutes from Washington D.C., GMU is a top-tier R1 research university known for its innovation and diversity. According to csrankings.org, GMU ranks:

• 🥇 32nd overall in CS
• 🔒 18th in Security Research

GMU provides:

• 💼 Full financial support: stipend, tuition, and health insurance
• 🚌 Reliable public transportation and access to two major international airports
• 🏞️ Opportunities for hiking, skiing, and visiting 100+ museums nearby
• 🌍 A global campus culture with over 130 countries represented
• 🤝 Proximity to major tech employers and agencies: Amazon, Microsoft, NSF, DARPA, CIA

GMU is the perfect combination of academic excellence and quality of life—making it a dream destination for research scholars.

🔗 Internal & External Resources

✅ Apply to GMU ECE PhD Program
✅ Dr. Yicheng Zhang’s Research Page
✅ More PhD Scholarships

📧 Need help with SOP, research proposal, or application prep?
Email: scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com

🌟 Why You Should Apply

✔️ Work with a rising academic leader in system security
✔️ Join a well-funded research group in a top-ranked U.S. university
✔️ Engage in cutting-edge research with real-world impact
✔️ Live in a vibrant, globally connected tech hub
✔️ Secure full financial support as a PhD student

If you’re looking to build a successful academic or industry career in computer security, AR/VR systems, and architecture, this is the opportunity for you.

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