University of Sussex AI PhD Studentships 2026

The University of Sussex invites applications for PhD studentships based within Sussex AI, an interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence based at the University of Sussex.

Sussex AI is the focal point of research in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science methods and applications within the University of Sussex. We draw together world-leading experts from across the University to create a critical mass of technical skills and domain knowledge. Our research and training cover a wide range of topics across AI and data science, with a unique multidisciplinary Sussex angle. 

Given the broad range of research carried out within Sussex AI, we encourage applications from students with innovative proposals in the following areas: 

• Theoretical challenges in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. 

• Innovative methodological developments in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science that enable novel applications. 

• Address complex problems that require in-depth interdisciplinary research at the intersections of traditional disciplinary boundaries. 

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Interview Process
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineJanuary 12, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Sussex
• City to studyBrighton
• School to studyUniversity of Sussex
• Course to studyArtificial Intelligence (AI) , Engineering , Informatics
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

For 3.5 years, you will receive a tax-free stipend at a standard rate of £20,780  per year and your fees will be waived (at the UK or overseas rate). In addition, to a one-off Research and Training Support Grant of £2,000. 

Requirements

This studentship is available to UK and overseas applicants. 

Eligible candidates will have an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent qualification) in a related field. 

The University of Sussex believes that the diversity of its staff and student community is fundamental to creative thinking, pedagogic innovation, intellectual challenge, and the interdisciplinary approach to research and learning. We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion amongst our staff and students. As such, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Selection Process

Application deadline: 12th January 2026

Interview date: March 2026

PhD start date: September 2026

Application Documents

• A research proposal.
• Your CV.
• Degree certificates and transcripts. 
• 2 references, including a minimum of 1 from any institution studied at within the last 5 years.
• If your first language is not English you will need to demonstrate that you meet the University’s English language requirements, see here for details of our accepted documentation.

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Application Deadline

How To Apply

Apply online for a full time PhD in Engineering or Informatics (SEPT2026) using our step-by-step guide.

Please clearly state on your application that you are applying for the Sussex AI Studentship and indicate your preferred primary supervisor.

Please ensure you application includes each of the following: 

• A research proposal.
• Your CV.
• Degree certificates and transcripts. 
• 2 references, including a minimum of 1 from any institution studied at within the last 5 years.
• If your first language is not English you will need to demonstrate that you meet the University’s English language requirements, see here for details of our accepted documentation.

Applicants must submit a PhD proposal indicating their preferred primary supervisor, who must be a member of the School of Engineering and Informatics. Secondary supervisors (if known) may also be nominated and can be from any part of the university. Proposals must describe a novel research direction that has feasible equipment and data requirements and should lie within the remit described above, and the scope of the supervisor(s) expertise. We have included a list of project suggestions to highlight the range of available research directions and supervisors, but this is not exhaustive and you are not required to select from this list of projects or supervisors. 

Please contact your preferred advisor for informal enquiries and for advice on preparing a high-quality application.  

To learn more, visit University of Sussex Scholarship webpage