University of Edinburgh
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SPADS studentship
PhD with Integrated Study in Sensing, Processing, and AI for Defence and Security University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
All students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend. The programme states an enhanced stipend, with a 2025/26 rate of £24,245; TechFirst funding offers £30,000 tax-free stipends for students entering in 2027/28 who are eligible for home fee status. A limited number of international studentships are available. Funding also includes a research training and support grant and access to facilities and cohort training events.
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Edinburgh

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About this position
Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) PhD with Integrated Study in Sensing, Processing, and AI for Defence and Security (SPADS) at the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University.
This doctoral programme focuses on artificial intelligence, sensing, signal processing, hardware design, autonomous sensing platforms, multi-agent systems, and data intelligence for defence and security applications. The programme is jointly hosted by the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University, with research and training across engineering, informatics, maths, and related disciplines.
Students undertake a PhD with integrated study (4 years full-time or 8 years part-time) with mandatory taught components and research from day one. The programme includes industry-driven research, placements, cohort training, and access to facilities such as the Edinburgh International Data Facility, the National Robotarium, and the Scottish Microelectronics Centre.
Funding: all students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual stipend. The programme mentions an enhanced tax-free stipend (2025/26 rate £24,245), TechFirst funding with £30,000 tax-free stipends for eligible home-fee-status students entering in 2027/28, and a limited number of international studentships. A research training and support grant is also included.
Eligibility: applicants should normally hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Applicants with significant industrial experience or relevant professional qualifications may be considered case by case. English language requirements apply. Applicants requiring ATAS clearance are not eligible, and successful applicants must complete BPSS checks.
How to apply: read the SPADS application guidance and submit an application via the EUCLID portal. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, English language evidence, two academic references, and supervisor/project details if relevant. Applications are considered on a gathered-field basis until places are filled, so early submission is recommended.
Funding details
All students receive a studentship covering tuition fees and an annual tax-free stipend. The programme states an enhanced stipend, with a 2025/26 rate of £24,245; TechFirst funding offers £30,000 tax-free stipends for students entering in 2027/28 who are eligible for home fee status. A limited number of international studentships are available. Funding also includes a research training and support grant and access to facilities and cohort training events.
What's required
Applicants need a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Candidates with significant industrial experience or relevant professional qualifications and at least a bachelor's degree in an appropriate subject may be considered case by case. English language proficiency is required, and applicants must meet the programme's English language requirements. Applicants requiring ATAS clearance are not eligible, and successful applicants must undergo BPSS recruitment checks.
How to apply
Read the School of Engineering CDT SPADS application guidance and submit your application through the EUCLID portal. Include the required documents such as a cover letter, CV, transcripts, degree certificates, English language evidence, two references, and supervisor/project details if applicable. Apply as early as possible; applications are reviewed on a gathered-field basis until places are filled.
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