University of Exeter PhD Studentship (Interpreting Language Representations in Large Language Models) 2025

The University of Exeter invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship to explore how Large Language Models (LLMs) represent and process linguistic knowledge. This exciting research will combine computer science, linguistics, and neuroscience to develop computational models that improve AI interpretability and control. The successful candidate will work closely with supervisors in a vibrant research environment at the Streatham Campus.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirments
• Interview Process
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineJuly 28, 2025
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Exeter
• City to studyLondon
• School to studyUniversity of Exeter
• Course to studyComputer Science
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Tuition Fees Covered (Home or partial international tuition)

• Annual Tax-Free Stipend (for 3.5 years, full-time)

• Access to optional training in NLP, ML, and linguistics

• Supervision by experts in AI and linguistics

Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or international equivalent in:

  • Computer Science
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Engineering
  • Cognitive Science
  • Linguistics
  • Mathematics

• Have strong programming skills and interest in LLMs, interpretability, and human-centred NLP

• Meet English language requirements if English is not their first language

Interview Dates and Process

The closing date for applications is midnight on 28th July 2025.  Interviews will be held virtually in the week commencing 4th August 2025

Application Deadline

How To Apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents 

• CV
• Letter of application (outlining your academic interests & prior research experience
• Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)
• Two references from referees familiar with your academic work.
• If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to [email protected] quoting the studentship reference number.
• If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5555 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

For more details, visit University of Exeter Scholarship webpage