Algorithm Aversion in Human-AI Collaboration for National Mapping Maintenance

The Centre for National Training and Research Excellence in Understanding Behaviour (Centre-UB) at the University of Birmingham is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in partnership with Ordnance Survey, Great Britain’s National Mapping Service. This doctoral project, starting October 2026, investigates the behavioural economics of human-AI collaboration in the context of national mapping maintenance. The research focuses on how trust, autonomy, and motivation are shaped when AI augments specialist work, rather than replacing it, providing a unique opportunity to study real-world implementation of AI-driven automation in geospatial mapping. Ordnance Survey is integrating AI tools to accelerate map updates and reduce operational costs, while maintaining human oversight to ensure quality and accuracy. The project will examine how trust in AI systems develops among mapping specialists, whether professionals seek to preserve authority in decision-making, and the impact of these changes on job satisfaction and productivity. The research employs a combination of qualitative and experimental methods, including interviews, focus groups, and controlled laboratory experiments, to identify successful collaboration patterns and test mechanisms for improving human-AI cooperation. The findings will inform Ordnance Survey’s phased rollout of AI systems and contribute to best practices for human-in-the-loop systems, with implications for government policy and industry standards. This studentship is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of technology, economics, and human behaviour, offering the chance to address pressing societal questions with direct impact on industry and policy. Applicants should have a 1st class or 2:1 degree in economics or a closely related discipline; an MSc in a relevant area is desirable but not essential. Experience with behavioural and experimental economics, quantitative data analysis, and qualitative research techniques is advantageous, though training will be provided for successful candidates. Enrolment as a PhD candidate requires completion of departmental PhD-level courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Strong written and spoken communication skills and a keen interest in impactful research are essential. The Centre-UB studentship covers full tuition fees, a maintenance stipend, support for research training, and research activity support grants. Due to UKRI funding stipulations, up to 30% of the cohort may be international applicants. For further details on the application process, visit the Centre-UB website. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be conducted online on 11th March 2026. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of human-AI collaboration in a high-impact, real-world setting at a leading UK institution.