TUS Funded Research Scholarship

Fully funded PhD opportunity at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) in GENIE: Generative AI for Creative & Artistic Design and Sustainability, linked to the EU AIDEA project.

This 4-year doctoral project sits at the intersection of generative AI, creative and artistic design, design education, eco-design, circular economy, and sustainability. The scholar will work within the IDEAM Research Institute / Faculty of Engineering and Technology and collaborate with partners across Europe, including Limerick School of Art & Design (TUS), Technical University of Liberec, Accademia Italiana, Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, Know Center, and CIAPE.

The project focuses on the responsible use of AI in design education, balancing technological acceleration with craftsmanship, ethical AI, human-centred design, and environmental responsibility. Research themes include AI-assisted design tools, digital engineering, prompt engineering, qualitative and mixed-methods research, GDPR-aware data handling, and the role of generative models in shaping future creative education.

Funding: full fees covered (€5,500/year), annual stipend of €16,000, materials/consumables budget of €1,500/year, and a one-off €1,000 laptop contribution.

Eligibility: applicants should hold a 2.1 honours degree (or equivalent) in Design Technology or a related field. Knowledge of AI-assisted design tools, Computer Science, Information Technology, or Digital Engineering is desirable. International applicants must meet the English language requirement of IELTS 6.5 minimum with no component below 6.5 or equivalent.

Deadline: 26 June 2026.

How to apply: download the TUS scholarship application form, include the project title in the subject line, and email the completed form to [email protected]. For queries, contact Dr John Cosgrove at [email protected].