PhD Studentship in Computer Science (AI-Driven Trait Analysis) at Loughborough University 2026

Leveraging AI, the project accelerates trait data acquisition by applying computer vision to herbarium specimens and field photos, as well as large language models to extract complementary information from literature and databases. Integrating image- and text-derived datasets poses challenges due to differences in scale, structure, and accuracy, requiring robust data fusion and validation.

By combining these AI-derived trait datasets with phylogenies and environmental variables, the project aims to rapidly explore trait evolution, predict dispersal potential, and assess climate-related risks. This work bridges biodiversity science and cutting-edge AI, offering an innovative framework for trait-based research.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineJanuary 7, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorLoughborough University
• City to studyLondon
• School to studyLoughborough University
• Course to studyArtificial Intelligence (AI) , Artificial Intelligence and Adaptive Systems , Computer Science
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• This studentship which is partially funded by NERC, provides a tax-free stipend of £20780 per annum (in 2025/26) and tuition fees at the UK rate for 3.5 years. It also provides a Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £8,000.
• Due to UKRI funding rules, no more than 30% of the studentships funded by this grant can be awarded to International candidates, but successful International candidates will have the difference between the UK and International tuition fees provided by the University.

Requirements

The entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours.

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

Applicants will normally need to hold, or expect to gain, at least a 2:1 degree (or equivalent) in Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science or Environmental Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or an appropriate Master’s degree.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Application Deadline

How To Apply

1. Complete a CENTA studentship application form in Word format.
    
2. All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select ‘Loughborough’ and select the Programme “School of Science/Computer Science”. Please quote the advertised reference number CENTA2026-LU01 in your online application.
   During the online application process please upload the CENTA studentship application form and a CV in addition to the other required minimum supporting documents.
    
3. Application closing date is midnight (UK time) on Wednesday 07 January 2026. Interviews for short-listed candidates are expected to be held sometime in the period Monday 02 February – Friday 13 February 2026.

Apply now

For more details, visit Loughborough University Scholarship webpage