Published: 07 Jul 2025 540 views
The University of Sheffield is offering a fully funded PhD studentship under the supervision of Dr. Marco Valentino and Prof. Nikos Aletras. This project explores the integration of Large Language Models (LLMs) with symbolic AI to develop robust explanation-based reasoning methods in natural language processing. By combining Chain-of-Thought prompting with neurosymbolic critique models, the research seeks to enhance interpretability and trustworthiness in high-stakes domains like healthcare and science.
Full tuition fee coverage at the UK home rate
Annual tax-free stipend of £19,237 (2024/25 UKRI standard)
Funding duration: 3.5 years full-time
Integration into the University of Sheffield’s world-class NLP research environment
Minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree or Merit in a Master’s in Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related field
IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component (if English is not your first language)
Open to students worldwide.
However, international applicants must fund the difference between UK home and international tuition fees through self-funding or additional scholarships.
Strong background in natural language processing or symbolic AI
Proven analytical and research skills
Demonstrated motivation for AI research, especially in explanation-based reasoning
Ability to formulate and explore novel research questions
Research proposal (max 4 A4 pages) with references, motivation, and approach
CV
Academic transcripts
Two academic references
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Check also:
Wits-Edinburgh Programme in Sustainable African Futures by Mastercard Foundation 2026-2027
Department of Aeronautics MSc Scholarship at Imperial College London 2026
To apply for a PhD studentship, applications must be made directly to the University of Sheffield using the Postgraduate Online Application Form. Make sure you name Dr. Marco Valentino and Prof. Nikolaos Aletras as your proposed supervisors.
Information on what documents are required and a link to the application form can be found here - https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying
The form has comprehensive instructions for you to follow, and pop-up help is available.
Your research proposal should:
-be no longer than 4 A4 pages, include references
-outline your reasons for applying for this studentship
-explain how you would approach the research, including details of your skills and experience in the topic area
For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Marco Valentino ([email protected]).
A friend or someone might be interested in this opportunity, kindly share.
