Supervisory Team: Vahid Yazdanpanah; Hector Calvo-Pardo

The AI-Supported Circular Economy (ACE) PhD project advances sustainable practices in the circular economy through the innovative application of state-of-the-art AI methods. The circular economy is a sustainable economic model, aiming to minimise waste and maximise resource reuse through closed-loop systems, in contrast to the traditional linear model of extracting raw material, producing, and then sending waste to pollute the environment. Instead, the circular economy prioritises the continual use and regeneration of materials, products, and resources to extend their lifecycle, reducing environmental impact. In this context, matching algorithms play a crucial role in facilitating the identification of synergies among industry stakeholders, ensuring optimal collaboration and resource reuse, thereby contributing to the overarching goal of creating environmentally sustainable circular economies. This needs to be complemented by smart methods for managing established relations (dynamic contracts) and requires support from policymakers in terms of incentives and subsidy schemes.

The ACE project aims to (1) improve matching algorithms to better account for industry needs and inputs, and using data-driven methods for evaluating which firms can collaborate efficiently and reuse resources; (2) develop dynamic pricing and smart contract mechanisms for efficient transactions, utilising algorithmic game theory methods and mechanism design; and (3) design and develop budget-balanced taxation and subsidy schemes to encourage environmentally sustainable circular economy relations. This involves testing policies and incentive schemes, e.g., using Agent-based simulations, that local authorities can effectively apply.

This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the forefront of sustainable circular economies through AI innovation. We welcome candidates with a passion for cutting-edge research, and an eagerness to explore innovative applications in sustainable resource optimisation and circular economy.

This is a 4-year integrated PhD (iPhD) programme and is part of the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Sustainability (SustAI) under the theme AI for Sustainable Operations and Circular Economy https://sustai.info/ .

Entry Requirements

You must already have, or expect to shortly graduate with, a very good undergraduate degree or Master’s degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree) or international equivalent in BSc or MSc in Computer Science, AI, Operations Research, Economics, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline. All applications will be considered on merit, tailored to the individual case.

Please note that only UK, EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for this PhD studentship.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study

Select programme type Research, Full or Part time, choose the 2025-2026 Academic year, and in the Search text enter “sust”.

On the next page, select Apply Online for the “iPhD AI for Sustainability”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should include the name of the project in the Area of Research .

Applications should include :

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) for non-native English speakers