Centre for Doctoral Training in Biomedical Artificial Intelligence PhD

Research profile

The UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Biomedical Artificial Intelligence grows from the realisation that AI technologies will play a central role leveraging data to transform our understanding and practice of biomedicine. Delivering such a step change will require training a new cadre of scientists operating at the intersection of computer science and biomedicine, building AI systems which are effective, ethical and empowering to scientists and users alike.

The CDT offers an interdisciplinary training programme covering technical AI skills, biomedical foundations and individually tailored training on understanding the societal aspects of Biomedical AI. It builds on a collaboration between several centres of excellence within the University with a long history of collaboration: the School of Informatics, the School of Biological Sciences, the MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, the Usher Institute of Population Health Science and Informatics, and the School of Social and Political Sciences. Together, these institutes provide a unique breadth and depth of expertise, as well as state-of-the-art computational and experimental facilities, to support the CDT cohorts.

Additionally, leading clinical, industrial and international academic partners will provide students with opportunities for hands-on application in a broad variety of contexts.

Programme structure

The CDT programme follows 1+3 format. In Year 1 you will study towards a Master by Research, undertaking a number of taught courses and research projects. In Year 2-4 you will propose and pursue an interdisciplinary PhD project under the joint supervision of an AI expert and an application domain expert.

PhD

Following successful completion of your Master by Research, you will proceed to an interdisciplinary PhD project. You will find supervisors (your MSc experience will help there!) and write a short proposal within the first month of PhD. Your supervisors will help you develop your proposal, and further feedback will be given by the CDT board.

During your PhD you will be embedded in local research groups, and there will be plenty of opportunities to showcase your work at local, national and international conferences and events. You will also be encouraged to undertake research visits and internships with our partners.

Career opportunities

Career opportunities for CDT graduates are broad and favourable. Biomedical AI is expected to be a sector of particular growth in the near to medium term, as highlighted in several governmental reports (Industrial Strategy, Life Sciences Industrial Strategy, etc) as well as major industrial players (Association of British Pharma Industry, Glaxo-Smith-Klein strategic report 2018). According to the EU patent office, the Med-Tech sector filed the largest number of new patents in 2017 than any sector.