Equity-Oriented Diffusion of Inclusive AI in Marginalised Communities (Fully funded PhD) Aston University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship at Aston University investigates the equity-oriented diffusion of inclusive generative AI (GAI) tools within marginalised refugee and migrant communities. Generative AI is transforming access to information, support, and opportunity, but those who could benefit most—refugees and migrants—are often the last to be reached. These groups face uncertainty, unequal access, and institutional constraints, which affect their ability to use digital support tools meaningfully.

The project aims to advance the field of inclusive AI by exploring how community-grounded, multilingual, and culturally responsive GAI tools are adopted, adapted, and circulated in marginalised settings. It seeks to develop a mid-range theoretical framework of equity-oriented diffusion, connecting innovation studies to contemporary debates on AI equity, data justice, and epistemic injustice. The research will explain how community trust networks, organisational intermediaries, and structural inequalities influence the adoption and circulation of GAI, distinguishing it from earlier forms of ICT diffusion.

Methodologically, the project employs action research, with iterative cycles co-produced with refugees, frontline practitioners, and AI developers. The student will be embedded within ACH across Birmingham and Bristol, conducting longitudinal fieldwork through repeated phases of co-design, intervention deployment, observation, and reflection. This approach positions the researcher as both an observer and a collaborative partner in redesigning inclusive AI services.

The studentship will make three main contributions: (1) developing a theoretical framework for equity-oriented diffusion in inclusive AI adoption, (2) generating longitudinal, multi-site empirical evidence on GAI adoption in refugee communities, and (3) producing practical approaches for NGOs, local authorities, and financial institutions to implement inclusive AI responsibly and effectively. The research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 4, 8, 10, and 16, and Aston University’s 2030 commitment to inclusive, entrepreneurial, and transformational research.

Supervision is provided by Dr Shuai Qin, whose research focuses on inclusive entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology adoption in marginalised communities, and Professor Monder Ram OBE DL, a world-leading scholar in ethnic minority entrepreneurship and inclusive innovation. The student will be based at Aston Campus in Birmingham, UK, and is expected to visit regularly.

Applicants must hold, or expect to achieve, a First or Upper Second Class Honours undergraduate degree and a Masters degree with Merit or Distinction in relevant subjects (e.g., innovation studies, sociology, migration studies, management, organisation studies, human geography, digital sociology, public policy, development studies, education, information systems, or related social science and humanities disciplines). Strong analytical, critical thinking, communication, and written skills are required. Overseas qualifications will be considered if equivalent. English language requirements must be met; evidence can be submitted later.

Application requirements include transcripts, certificates, a research statement, personal statement, CV, two academic references, evidence of English proficiency, and a copy of passport. Applications missing documents will be rejected. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams for shortlisted candidates.

Funding covers all tuition fees and includes an annual stipend. The successful candidate is responsible for costs related to relocation, campus visits, visa, flights, and NHS Surcharge. International students must ensure they meet financial requirements for these expenses. For further information, contact the supervisors or the Postgraduate Admissions team.