Program Overview
Artificial Intelligence
Introduction
We are actively seeking PhD students to join our cutting-edge research teams. With a distinguished reputation in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, we offer exceptional opportunities to work alongside world-recognized experts in multi-agent systems, natural language generation, machine learning, and blockchain.
Our research has strong links with the Interdisciplinary Centre for Data and Artificial Intelligence, which explores applications of data science and artificial intelligence across domains, providing PhD students with opportunities to collaborate with other disciplines to push the boundaries of computing science.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Degree Qualification: MSc or PhD
Research Areas
Autonomous Agents (Agents at Aberdeen)
Agents at Aberdeen (A3) is a research theme with a long history of investigating a wide variety of research topics related to autonomous agents, multi-agent systems and knowledge representation and reasoning. Our recent focus has been on exploring resilience, reliability, and coordination in autonomous multi-agent systems. We apply these techniques to a wide range of application domains, including but not limited to: emergency response, healthcare, decision-making in robotic systems, self-driving cars, explainability, and software engineering.
- PhD Supervisors: Nir Oren, Bruno Yun, Felipe Meneguzzi, Brian Logan, Rafael Cardoso
Computational Linguistics in Aberdeen (CLAN)
Research interests include generating natural language from a machine representation system such as a knowledge base, logical form, or structured/unstructured dataset; analysing properties of human language; and developing, applying and evaluating NLP models across a variety of tasks, e.g., dialogue systems, language modelling, question answering, etc.
- Supervisors: Professor Ehud Reiter, Dr Yaji Sripada, Anya Belz, Arabella Sinclair, Ruizhe Li, Xiao Li
Cybersecurity and Privacy
The University of Aberdeen Cyber Security theme (CSG) is a multi-disciplinary theme that brings together researchers with varied backgrounds to build a safer, secure and privacy-preserving future with a core value of "Technology for Good". Our research focuses on both academic and industrial aspects of cybersecurity and its applications. Our theme has a wide range of expertise in various fields. CSG's vision is to be a Centre of excellence in the UK and overseas industry/academic/government for cyber security research.
- PhD Supervisors: Pradip Sharma, Wanpeng li, Raja Akram, Matthew Collinson, Edward Chuah
Machine Learning (AberdeenML)
Research forces on data-efficient machine learning, probabilistic modeling, and autonomous decision making. Applications focus on robotics, agriculture, energy, health, etc.
- Supervisors: Georgios Leontidis, Yaji Sripada, Ruizhe Li, Tryphon Lambrou, Jinya Su, Dewei Yi, Mingjun Zhong, Arabella Sinclair, Xiao Li, Shouyong Jiang
AI-enabled Healthcare
AI-enabled healthcare focuses on transforming the way healthcare is by exploring how it can support improved care outcomes, patient experience, and access to digital healthcare services.
- Supervisors: Yun Bruno, Dewei Yi, Ehud Reiter, Pradip Sharma, Ruizhe Li
Entry Requirements
To apply for this programme must have at least a good Honours degree in a related subject or discipline.
International Applicants
Additional details for international applicants, including information specific to your country or territory, are available.
Fees and Funding
View the tuition fee rates.
Scholarships
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
Careers
A PhD in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Aberdeen offers diverse career opportunities across academia, industry, and research institutions. Many graduates continue with academic careers in teaching AI, machine learning, data science, and pursuing research projects at universities.
There are also huge opportunities in industry, for examples as a research scientist developing algorithms and machine learning models or working with data in the tech, healthcare or finance sectors. Computing Science at Aberdeen has a strong start up culture, for example, ARRIA NLG - the global leader in the field of natural language generation (NLG). A PhD in AI is a springboard for setting up your own entrepreneurial enterprise focused on innovative AI solutions, driving technological vision and development.
The strong interdisciplinary links at Aberdeen also open up career opportunities in other areas such as bioinformatics and environmental monitoring where you can apply your expertise to advancing healthcare or promoting sustainability.
Related Postgraduate Taught Degrees
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity and Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Information Technology with Cybersecurity
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.