Intrinsically-aligned machine learning
PhD
Key facts
Start dates
September 2026
Application deadline
22 May 2026
Location
Course length
Full time: 3 years
Supervisor(s)
More details
- Eligibility: UK and International students
- Bursary p.a.: £21,805
- Fees and Bench fees: The studentship covers bench fees, stipend and tuition fees. Visa and associated costs are not funded.
Overview
Whereas traditional machine learning is solely interested in model selection (i.e., identifying, given the available data for the task at hand, the model that is expected to perform best), we propose a new paradigm for an “intrinsically-aligned” artificial intelligence, where accuracy, fairness and explainability are all taken into account when selecting the “best” AI model.
In a truly cross-disciplinary effort, this project, funded by the Leverhulme Trust and in collaboration with the University of Manchester, will leverage results from human decision-making to inform the design of this new paradigm, and feed the results of the latter back into human decision-making to help make it more explainable.
How to apply
Entry requirements
Essential criteria:
- Good working knowledge of machine learning and deep learning.
- Hands-on knowledge of Python or PyTorch for implementing machine learning and/or deep learning algorithms.
- Capability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent written and oral communication and organisational skills. Proficiency in written English is required.
- A real passion and commitment for research.
Desirable criteria:
- Knowledge of a variety of deep learning architectures and methods.
- Knowledge or past work on explainability in AI.
- Previous publication record in relevant fields: AI, machine learning, computer vision, etc.
- Previous successful project on a relevant topic.
- Good knowledge of statistics, probability or statistical learning.
English language requirements
IELTS language certificate with an overall score of 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any element) issued in the last 2 years by an approved test centre.
Application process
Please complete your online application.
Please note the following:
Title: PhD Studentship – Intrinsically-aligned machine learning
Select the following course: MPhil/PhD in Computing
Include the following documents:
- Two references
- A research proposal
- Previous degree certificates and transcripts
- Scan of passport
- English language qualification (international candidates only)
- CV
- Cover letter
Please be advised that the selection process will involve an interview.
Tuition fees
Questions about fees?
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