PhD In AI Scholarship 2025 At The University Of Surrey & Royal Holloway, University Of London: Apply Now!

About the PhD in AI Scholarship 2025

The University of Surrey and Royal Holloway, University of London, accept applications for the PhD in AI Scholarship 2025 under the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) AI Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in AI for Digital Media Inclusion.

This prestigious program, a collaboration between the Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI and StoryFutures at Royal Holloway, is focused on developing ethical AI solutions that enhance digital media accessibility. The fully funded PhD scholarships aim to equip researchers with the skills to create responsible AI technologies that promote inclusivity in digital content consumption.

Eligible Fields of Study

Applicants must have a strong interest in one or more of the following fields:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Digital Media Inclusion
Inclusive Design
Creative Technology

Human-Centered AI Research

This multidisciplinary program welcomes candidates with expertise in computer science, machine learning, human-computer interaction, data science, media studies, and related disciplines.

Eligibility Criteria

The scholarship is open to candidates who demonstrate:

Academic excellence in a relevant field.
A passion for AI research focused on digital media inclusion.
Strong teamwork and problem-solving skills to work within a multidisciplinary cohort.

Eligibility for UKRI funding:
- UK applicants receive full tuition and a stipend.
- International students are welcome to apply but must secure additional funding for the difference in tuition fees.

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated based on:

Academic achievement and relevant experience (50%)
Motivation and case study submission (30%)

Fit within a multidisciplinary cohort and ability to collaborate (20%)

Selection Process

The application process consists of multiple stages:

Online Application Submission:
- Submission of forms, CV, and case study.
Recruitment Workshop (March 2025):
- Candidates participate in a group task, interview, and case study discussion.
- This can be attended in person or online.
Pre-selection and Conditional Offers:
- Shortlisted applicants receive a conditional PhD offer.

Formal PhD Admission:
- Successful candidates submit a formal PhD application through either the University of Surrey or Royal Holloway, University of London.

Benefits of the PhD in AI Scholarship 2025

Successful candidates will receive:

Full tuition fees at the UK home rate.
Annual tax-free stipend of £20,780 (UKRI 2025/2026 rate).
Additional funding of £4,000 per year for enhanced financial support.

Potential extra funding for research training, conference attendance, and development.
Industry collaboration opportunities with leading companies and AI research institutions.

Location of the PhD in AI Scholarship 2025

Depending on the research project allocation, candidates will be based at:

University of Surrey, or
Royal Holloway, University of London

Both institutions offer world-class AI research facilities and collaborate with industry leaders in the UK and beyond.

How to Apply for the PhD in AI Scholarship

To apply, follow these steps:

Complete the online application forms:
- CDT Application Form 1
- CDT Additional Information Form 2
Submit supporting documents via email to CDT_AI@surrey.ac.uk:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum 2 pages)
- Case Study (maximum 600 words) must be labelled as LASTNAME.Name
Attend the Recruitment Workshop (March 2025)
- Applicants will participate in a group task, case study discussion, and interview.
- Both in-person and online attendance options are available.
Submit a Formal PhD Application
- Shortlisted candidates will then complete a formal PhD application through the University of Surrey or Royal Holloway’s admissions portal.