PhD in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence

The PhD in Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence is a research-based program that aims to train the next generation of AI researchers, technologists, and leaders in the development of human-centred, human-compatible, responsible, and socially and globally beneficial AI technologies.

Program Overview

This program offers research training in areas such as fundamental human-level AI, social and interactive AI, cognitive AI, creative AI, health and global AI, and responsible AI. Students will be educated in an interdisciplinary environment where they can access expertise not only in the technical but also human, ethical, applied, and industrial aspects of AI.

Program Structure

The program is distinct from other PhD programs in that it takes a strongly interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary approach to technical AI. It will be based at the Centre for Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence (CHIA) within the Institute for Technology and Humanity (ITH), where PhD students will have access to a large community of scholars and students tackling similar questions and to the active research events program that constitutes a key part of CHIAs work.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the PhD program, graduates will demonstrate:

• The ability to create and interpret new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication.
• The general ability to conceptualize, design, and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications, or understanding at the forefront of human-inspired AI, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems.
• A detailed understanding of applicable techniques for cross-disciplinary research and advanced academic enquiry in the field of human-inspired AI.
• The ability to make informed judgments on complex issues in human-inspired AI, often in the absence of complete data.
• A critical perspective on the governance and ethical challenges that arise from applications of human-inspired AI and how these sit within and interact with wider society.
• A systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge in relation to the history, methods, and applications of human-inspired AI.

Skills and Other Attributes

Graduates of the course will be able to:

• Continue to undertake pure and/or applied research and development at an advanced level, contributing substantially to the development of new techniques, ideas, or approaches.
• Communicate their ideas and conclusions clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Contribute constructively within national, international, and cross-disciplinary environments.
• Transfer skills and qualities acquired during the program to successfully engage in employment requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Employability

Students of the program will graduate with a formal qualification in the rapidly expanding area of AI, with an emphasis on human-inspired AI. The combination of specialist, technical expertise in AI and cross-disciplinary approaches involving a wide range of human-centric disciplines means that doctoral graduates will be uniquely qualified in the sector.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK Masters degree with Distinction (or an equivalent international qualification). However, candidates with a Masters degree awarded at Merit or Pass level may also be considered if they can demonstrate exceptional relevant experience. All applications are judged on their own merits, and students must demonstrate their suitability to undertake doctoral-level research.

Program Details

• Duration: 3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time
• Study Mode: Research
• Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
• Institute: Institute for Technology and Humanity

Key Dates

• Applications open: September 3, 2025
• Application deadline: December 3, 2025
• Course starts: October 1, 2026

Funding Deadlines

• Course Funding Deadline: December 3, 2025
• Gates Cambridge US round only: October 15, 2025

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• Digital Humanities MPhil

University of Cambridge

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Overview:

The University of Cambridge is a prestigious public research university located in Cambridge, England. It is one of the world's leading academic institutions, known for its high-quality teaching and research. The university is comprised of 31 constituent colleges, each with its own unique character and traditions.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect to be part of a close-knit community within their chosen college, while also having access to the wider university's resources and facilities. The university boasts a rich history and tradition, with numerous historic buildings and gardens. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and cultural events.

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Academic Excellence:

Cambridge is renowned for its world-class academics and research.

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A degree from Cambridge is highly valued globally, opening doors to various career opportunities.

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The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and museums.

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Cambridge offers a rich and diverse student experience, with numerous opportunities for extracurricular activities and social engagement.

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The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

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